Received Pronunciation, hereafter abbreviated as RP, which has been considered a model of English pronunciation is broadening to more tolerance towards a larger amount of speakers. (Upton/Kortmann 2008:238f.) Looking at the history of RP first will lead us to conclusions about its function and social importance, which are still applicable nowadays. Afterwards, special features of RP will be discussed as examples that might also imply certain changes that have happened to RP over the last decades. Afterwards a decision can be made, whether the development RP is undergoing are being useful and promising for the future of the English language.
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 2. History of RP
- 3. Function and Social Importance of RP
- 4. Special Features of RP
- 5. Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This essay aims to explore the features, function, and importance of Received Pronunciation (RP) in the English language. It examines the historical development of RP, its role in society, and its distinctive phonetic characteristics. The essay also considers the ongoing evolution of RP and its future relevance.
- The historical development of Received Pronunciation (RP).
- The social function and importance of RP.
- The distinctive phonetic features of RP.
- The ongoing evolution and changes in RP.
- The implications of these changes for the future of the English language.
Chapter Summaries
1. Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage for the essay by defining Received Pronunciation (RP) and outlining its increasing acceptance among a wider range of speakers. It previews the essay's structure, indicating that a historical overview will precede an analysis of RP's function, social importance, and key phonetic features. The chapter establishes the central question of whether the ongoing evolution of RP is beneficial for the English language, a question that will be addressed throughout the essay.
2. History of RP: This chapter traces the historical development of RP, highlighting its emergence as a standardized form of English pronunciation following the replacement of French as the official language in the late 14th century. It details the role of the royal chancery in Westminster in establishing grammatical and lexical uniformity, while acknowledging the persistence of regional pronunciation differences. The chapter underscores the association of RP with high social status among the educated elite and the eventual influence of rationalist ideals and the publication of prescriptive dictionaries and grammars on the codification of standard English. The pivotal role of Daniel Jones in defining and disseminating the concept of RP as "approved" or "accepted" pronunciation is also discussed. This historical context establishes the groundwork for understanding the social and functional implications of RP discussed in subsequent chapters.
3. Function and Social Importance of RP: This chapter analyzes the function and social significance of RP in contemporary Britain. It differentiates between general RP, refined RP, and near-RP, emphasizing the prevalence of general RP as a teaching model and its widespread acceptance due largely to its historical association with the mass media. The chapter explores the historical connection between RP and higher social status, noting its continued association with prestige and articulateness. The use of RP as a benchmark for comparing other varieties of English, such as Cockney and Estuary English, is also highlighted, underscoring its role in linguistic education and foreign language teaching. This analysis demonstrates the complex interplay between linguistic norms, social perceptions, and the ongoing changes in language use.
4. Special Features of RP: This chapter delves into the specific phonetic features that distinguish RP from other accents of English. Key differences in the pronunciation of the /r/ sound, the long back vowel /a:/, and the handling of the /h/ sound are examined. The chapter illustrates the influence of non-standard accents, particularly Estuary English, on contemporary RP, showcasing the dynamic nature of linguistic evolution. The discussion of allophones of the lateral /l/ further emphasizes the subtle variations within RP and its responsiveness to broader linguistic trends. By detailing these phonetic distinctions, the chapter provides a nuanced understanding of the internal variations within RP and its interaction with other regional and social dialects.
Keywords
Received Pronunciation (RP), English pronunciation, sociolinguistics, language standardization, accent, dialect, phonetic features, Estuary English, mass media, social status, language change, historical linguistics, language teaching.
FAQ: A Comprehensive Language Preview of Received Pronunciation (RP)
What is the purpose of this essay?
This essay aims to explore the features, function, and importance of Received Pronunciation (RP) in the English language. It examines its historical development, its role in society, and its distinctive phonetic characteristics, also considering its ongoing evolution and future relevance.
What are the key themes explored in the essay?
The essay's key themes include the historical development of RP, its social function and importance, its distinctive phonetic features, its ongoing evolution and changes, and the implications of these changes for the future of the English language.
What topics are covered in each chapter?
Chapter 1 (Introduction): Defines RP, outlines its increasing acceptance, previews the essay's structure, and establishes the central question of whether RP's evolution is beneficial for the English language. Chapter 2 (History of RP): Traces RP's historical development, highlighting its emergence as a standardized form, its association with high social status, and the role of key figures like Daniel Jones. Chapter 3 (Function and Social Importance of RP): Analyzes RP's function and social significance in contemporary Britain, differentiating between various types of RP and exploring its connection to prestige and articulateness. Chapter 4 (Special Features of RP): Delves into the specific phonetic features distinguishing RP from other accents, examining key differences in pronunciation and illustrating the influence of other accents like Estuary English.
What is Received Pronunciation (RP)?
Received Pronunciation (RP) is a standardized form of English pronunciation. The essay explores its historical development, social implications, and unique phonetic characteristics.
What is the historical context of RP?
RP emerged as a standardized form of English pronunciation following the replacement of French. The royal chancery played a role in establishing uniformity, though regional differences persisted. Its association with high social status among the educated elite and the influence of prescriptive dictionaries and grammars shaped its codification. Daniel Jones played a pivotal role in defining and disseminating RP.
What is the social significance of RP?
RP has historically been associated with higher social status and continues to be linked with prestige and articulateness. Its use as a benchmark for comparing other English varieties highlights its role in linguistic education and foreign language teaching. The essay distinguishes between general, refined, and near-RP, emphasizing the prevalence of general RP.
What are the distinctive phonetic features of RP?
The essay details specific phonetic features that differentiate RP from other accents, including variations in the pronunciation of /r/, /a:/, and /h/, and discusses the influence of non-standard accents, particularly Estuary English, on contemporary RP, showcasing its dynamic nature.
What are the keywords associated with this essay?
Received Pronunciation (RP), English pronunciation, sociolinguistics, language standardization, accent, dialect, phonetic features, Estuary English, mass media, social status, language change, historical linguistics, language teaching.
What is the overall conclusion of the essay (implied)?
The essay implicitly explores whether the ongoing evolution of RP is beneficial for the English language. The detailed examination of its history, social function, and phonetic characteristics suggests a complex and evolving relationship between RP and the broader English language landscape.
- Quote paper
- Adrian Müller (Author), 2013, Features, Function and Importance of Received Pronunciation, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/315662
