Paul Simpson provides a definitive introduction to the English language through the medium of English Literature. Through the use of illustrations from poetry, prose and drama, this book offers a lively and accessible guide to important concepts and techniques in English language study. Each chapter: * develops a particular topic in language through a series of practical tasks * provides points for further discussion * includes project work for use individually, or as part of a group. Students will find the author's selection and presentation of topics helpful, as he progressively widens the scope of topics through from single words to the structure of whole conversations. By developing practical activities designed for the study of English Language, this book goes way beyond pure linguistic description, and will be an invaluable aid for the beginner student of the English language.