The most accessible, well-balanced history of the German language available! No comparable work is available in English or German that gives readers an adequate foundation in the methods, goals, and results of historico-comparative linguistics as they apply to the German language and its historical antecedents. Waterman"s monograph excels through its clear presentation of materials, the extensive use of charts and maps, and a well- organized bibliography. A wealth of examples document a surprisingly broad review of German language issues.