Nicholas Hudson Livres

Q: Why have a guide to using language when you can look it up on the internet? A: Because you often can't find a clear or reliable answer. However, Nicholas Hudson's wonderfully comprehensive and practical compendium on the English language will tell you what you need to know. Should you use 'lay' or 'lie'? How do you use a semicolon correctly? What's a willy-willy? The difference between a town and a city, or a boat and a ship? In his witty and pithy entries, Nicholas Hudson identifies commonly confused terms. He explains how to use the key elements of English grammar and punctuation to convey the meaning you intend. He highlights distinctively Australian usage and terms, and covers the impact of digital technologies on writing and publishing. Modern Australian Usage should be on the desk of every writer who wants to expand their understanding of our rich and frustrating language. 'A comprehensive usage guide based on great knowledge, experience and love of language... immensely readable...' - Susan Butler, The Editor, Macquarie Dictionary 'Insightful and original observations on Australian usage: an essential read for all lovers of language.' - Kate Burridge, Professor of Linguistics, Monash University

Focusing on the evolution of writing from the late Renaissance to Romanticism, this work highlights its critical role in shaping language, technology, and Western civilization during the Early Modern Era. Nicholas Hudson challenges prevailing views in historical scholarship, particularly the notion of a "logocentric" European thought and the idea that increased print and literacy led to a shift towards a visually oriented culture. His analysis reveals the complexities of attitudes towards written language during this transformative period.

Exploring the interplay between writing and the development of language, technology, and civilization during the early modern period, this work delves into how these elements shaped societal progress and cultural identity. It examines the transformative impact of writing on communication and knowledge dissemination, highlighting key innovations and their implications for human thought and societal structures. Through a historical lens, the text reveals the critical role of writing in advancing civilization and influencing technological advancements.

The book provides an in-depth exploration of Johnson's evolution from humble beginnings to a prominent literary figure in the eighteenth century. It examines his key works and political writings, portraying him as a moralist who navigated the challenging political landscape of a time marked by revolutionary change. Hudson's analysis reveals the complexities of Johnson's character and his responses to the realities of the political environment.

Hudson explores Samuel Johnson's pivotal role in shaping modern English identity, delving into his literary works and cultural influence. The analysis highlights Johnson's insights into language, society, and national character, illustrating how his thoughts and writings helped define what it means to be English. Through a detailed examination of Johnson's contributions, the book sheds light on the intersection of literature and national identity during a transformative period in English history.

The book offers a comprehensive exploration of dining practices in the Roman Empire, focusing on the evolution of social interactions from the Principate to the Dominate. By integrating literary and material evidence, Hudson reconstructs the atmosphere of various dining events, revealing how social goals influenced these practices. The study emphasizes the significance of small group dining, analyzing tableware and its connection to human behavior, thereby providing fresh insights into the social dynamics of Late Antiquity through a unique blend of theory, history, and material culture.