Positive Emotions in Old English Language and Thought

The study of emotional expressions is rapidly growing, but many researchers overlook the dynamic and historical aspects of these expressions. This book proposes new methods for analyzing the diachronic evolution of emotional expressions within their sociohistorical contexts, focusing on Old English positive emotions. Combining cognitive linguistic and historical sociolinguistic approaches, it addresses the underrepresented study of emotions like happiness, love, and pride in Old English. By analyzing historical lexical data, the book explores how positive emotions reflect sociolinguistic variables and societal changes, offering insights into semantic shifts and evolving emotional conceptualizations. It also examines the role of cultural factors in shaping figurative language related to emotions.