Language

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We Speak French Here

French was the only language worth speaking in medieval Britain – and not just by the upper classes.

A stela with Oscan inscription from Pompeii, first century BC, reading: ‘Vibius Popidius, son of Vibius, chief magistrate, was in charge of this work and the same man approved it.’ (The Trustees of the British Museum)

The Language of the Roman Empire

What language did the Romans speak? Latin was used throughout the Roman Empire, but it shared space with a host of other languages and dialects...

The Oaths of Strasbourg from Nithard's history, late tenth century. © Bridgeman Images

Oaths of Strasbourg Sworn

The earliest surviving written evidence of a Romance language, the Oaths of Strasbourg were sworn on February 14th, 842.