Early American Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases


Book Description

p.B. J. Whiting savors proverbial expressions and has devoted much of his lifetime to studying and collecting them; no one knows more about British and American proverbs than he. The present volume, based upon writings in British North America from the earliest settlements to approximately 1820, complements his and Archer Taylor's Dictionary of American Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases, 1820-1880. It differs from that work and from other standard collections, however, in that its sources are primarily not "literary" but instead workaday writings - letters, diaries, histories, travel books, political pamphlets, and the like. The authors represent a wide cross-section of the populace, from scholars and statesmen to farmers, shopkeepers, sailors, and hunters. Mr. Whiting has combed all the obvious sources and hundreds of out-of-the-way publications of local journals and historical societies. This body of material, "because it covers territory that has not been extracted and compiled in a scholarly way before, can justly be said to be the most valuable of all those that Whiting has brought together," according to Albert B. Friedman. "What makes the work important is Whiting's authority: a proverb or proverbial phrase is what BJW thinks is a proverb or proverbial phrase. There is no objective operative definition of any value, no divining rod; his tact, 'feel, ' experience, determine what's the real thing and what is spurious."










The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable


Book Description

This Dictionary is part of the Oxford Reference Collection: using sustainable print-on-demand technology to make the acclaimed backlist of the Oxford Reference programme perennially available in hardback format. What is a ham-and-egger? What are Anglo-Saxon attitudes? Who or what is liable to jump the shark? Who first tried to nail jelly to the wall? The answers to these and many more questions are in this fascinating book. Here in one volume you can track down the stories behind the names and sayings you meet, whether in classic literature or today's news. Drawing on Oxford's unrivalled bank of reference and language online resources, this dictionary covers classical and other mythologies, history, religion, folk customs, superstitions, science and technology, philosophy, and popular culture. Extensive cross referencing makes it easy to trace specific information, while every page points to further paths to explore. A fascinating slice of cultural history, and a browser's delight from start to finish. What is the fog of war? Who first wanted to spend more time with one's family? When was the Dreamtime? How long since the first cry of Women and children first? Where might you find dark matter? Would you want the Midas touch? Should you worry about grey goo?







Chatterbox


Book Description




Dictionary of European Proverbs


Book Description

This Dictionary contains over 50,000 proverbs, in some 70 European languages and dialects, arranged in 2,500 sets. It is the fruits of over 40 years of collection and research, the only collection of proverbs on anything like this scale ever to be published anywhere in the world. Emanuel Strauss has trawled through innumerable collections of proverbs in all languages, from early printed books and rare items to the latest theses and journals, and grouped together many thousands of proverbs in sets of equivalent meaning. Comprehensive indexes for each language provide access to any proverb by way of its key words. A critical bibliography musters some 500 items, from incunabula to the current decade.




Dictionary of Quotations from Ancient and Modern, English and Foreign Sources


Book Description

Discover the power of words with the "Dictionary of Quotations from Ancient and Modern, English and Foreign Sources" by James Wood. This remarkable compilation offers an extensive collection of quotes that capture the essence of human thought, emotion, and experience across cultures and time periods. As you explore this treasure trove of wisdom, consider this: What profound insights might inspire you in your daily life from the voices of the past? Wood meticulously curates a diverse array of quotations, showcasing the brilliance of thinkers, writers, and leaders from various backgrounds. Each entry not only provides the quote but also its source, offering readers a deeper understanding of its context and significance. This dictionary serves as an essential reference for anyone seeking to enrich their writing, speeches, or conversations with powerful expressions. The collection spans numerous themes, from love and wisdom to humor and resilience, making it an invaluable tool for inspiration. Are you ready to tap into the collective wisdom of humanity in "Dictionary of Quotations from Ancient and Modern, English and Foreign Sources"? Engage with a resource that transcends language barriers and invites you to reflect on the thoughts that have shaped our world. These quotations are not merely words; they are echoes of the human spirit and its pursuit of understanding. This is your opportunity to enhance your expression and ignite your creativity. Will you embrace the wisdom of the ages and discover the perfect words for every occasion? Don’t miss out on owning this comprehensive collection. Purchase "Dictionary of Quotations from Ancient and Modern, English and Foreign Sources" now, and let the voices of the past illuminate your present!




A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs


Book Description

In 'A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs' by Henry G. Bohn, readers are immersed in a collection of wise and expressive proverbs from various languages including French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Bohn presents these proverbs in their original languages with English translations, allowing readers to delve into the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of each saying. The book's literary style is informative and engaging, making it an essential resource for those interested in folklore, linguistics, and cultural studies. Bohn's meticulous selection showcases the universal truths and unique perspectives encapsulated in each proverb, making the book a valuable contribution to the study of cross-cultural communication and understanding. 'A Polyglot of Foreign Proverbs' is not only a fascinating read but also a comprehensive reference for anyone seeking to broaden their knowledge of international wisdom and traditions.




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