Classical dictionary of the vulgar tongue. 1823 [Leather Bound]

Francis Grose

Dive straight into the delightful chaos of language with Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue. This audacious compilation by Francis Grose not only serves as a dictionary but acts as a time capsule of English vernacular from the 18th century, soaring with raucous humor and a tantalizing edge of irreverence. Think linguistic treasure chest-overflowing with words that reflect a raw, unfiltered perspective on the society of its time.

Published in 1823, Grose's work emerges from a historical backdrop where language was a battleground of class and culture, a societal mirror reflecting the mores and eccentricities of the people who spoke it. This dictionary isn't merely a collection of terms; it's a portal into the lives of everyday people, their delights, and their disgraces. Each entry invites you to dance through the raucous streets of London, to hear the boisterous laughter and shady whispers of a population that thrived on wit and candor. 🕺💬

Grose, a satirical playwright and an archetype of the Enlightenment-a period replete with a quest for knowledge and an exploration of human behavior-gives you not just definitions, but a vantage point to scrutinize a lively tapestry of class stratifications and social commentaries. His words flutter through the ages, teasing and mocking the society that birthed them. How remarkable it is that a dusty old dictionary can spark such vivid imagery of taverns, cockfights, and the raucous buzz of bustling market scenes!

Readers have expressed an intoxicating blend of fascination and disbelief upon cracking open this linguistic vault. On Amazon, one reviewer quipped, "You'll laugh, you'll groan, but you'll never look at English the same way again!" It's impossible to resist the infectious charm of Grose's whimsicality, as readers find themselves immersed in a world where "squab" refers not just to a pigeon, but also to an unwanted child; and "to be taken in" suggests a not-so-peaceful encounter with a charlatan. Each definition serves like a shot of espresso: invigorating and eye-opening, leaving an indelible mark on your understanding of language and culture.

But let's not skim over the controversies. Critics have pointed out that some terms in the dictionary reflect a bygone era's prejudices and stereotypes. Is the historical significance enough to overlook the unsavory aspects? Can we celebrate the linguistic creativity while acknowledging its roots in a society that often marginalized the very voices it now caricatures? These questions linger, provoking thought and encouraging profound discussions. 🤔💭

What makes Grose's dictionary even richer is its influence. Writers and satirists such as Charles Dickens and George Bernard Shaw drew inspiration from Grose's cheeky entries, allowing the whimsical and the ridiculous to flourish in their texts. Imagine how the echoes of Grose's vocabulary ripple through subsequent generations! The phrases and the playful spirit embedded within have shaped English literature and continued to inspire new works, ensuring that the essence of the vulgar tongue remains alive.

Put simply, Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue is a call to arms to the curious minds-those who question norms and wish to bask in a glorious riot of language. This isn't just a book; it's an invitation to explore humanity in all its flawed, humorous glory. So why linger on the edges? Dive in and let the words wash over you like a boisterous tide, reshaping your perceptions, your laughter, and perhaps even your verbiage long after you've closed the cover. Get ready to share your newfound gems of wisdom at your next social gathering or simply savor the thrill of knowing-after all, understanding language is akin to understanding life itself! 🌊✨️

📖 Classical dictionary of the vulgar tongue. 1823 [Leather Bound]

✍ by Francis Grose

🧾 313 pages

2021

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