Middle English Vocabulary to Know for English Literature – Before 1670

Middle English vocabulary is rich and varied, reflecting the language's evolution before 1670. Understanding terms like "thou," "ye," and "wight" helps us appreciate the nuances in literature from this period, enhancing our reading experience.

1. Thou/Thee/Thy/Thine

   • "Thou" is the singular form of "you," used for addressing one person.
   • "Thee" is the objective case of "thou," used when the person is the object of a verb or preposition.
   • "Thy" is the possessive form, equivalent to "your," used before a noun.
   • "Thine" is used before a vowel sound or as a standalone possessive pronoun.

2. Ye/You/Your

   • "Ye" is an archaic plural form of "you," used to address multiple people.
   • "You" serves as both singular and plural in later English, but in Middle English, it was more formal.
   • "Your" is the possessive form used for both singular and plural.

3. Wight (person)

   • "Wight" refers to a person or creature, often used in a literary context.
   • It can imply a being of some significance or worth.
   • The term is often found in older texts, emphasizing character or nature.

4. Anon (soon, at once)

   • "Anon" indicates immediacy, suggesting that something will happen shortly.
   • It is often used in dialogue to convey urgency or promptness.
   • The term reflects the expectation of quick action or response.

5. Ere (before)

   • "Ere" is a preposition meaning "before" in time.
   • It is commonly used in poetry and prose to set temporal context.
   • The term adds a formal tone to the narrative.

6. Eke (also)

   • "Eke" means "also" or "in addition," used to add information.
   • It can be used to emphasize the inclusion of something extra.
   • The term is often found in older texts to enhance the flow of ideas.

7. Forsooth (truly)

   • "Forsooth" is an expression of truth or sincerity, often used for emphasis.
   • It conveys a sense of seriousness or authenticity in statements.
   • The term is frequently found in dramatic or poetic contexts.

8. Whilom (once, formerly)

   • "Whilom" refers to a time in the past, indicating something that was once true.
   • It is often used to evoke nostalgia or historical context.
   • The term adds a layer of depth to storytelling by referencing bygone eras.

9. Yclept (called, named)

   • "Yclept" means "named" or "called," often used to introduce a character or concept.
   • It adds a formal or poetic touch to descriptions.
   • The term is typically found in narratives to provide clarity about identity.

10. Verily (truly)

    • "Verily" emphasizes truthfulness, similar to "truly."
    • It is often used to affirm statements or beliefs.
    • The term enhances the credibility of the speaker in dialogue.

11. Methinks (I think)

    • "Methinks" expresses personal opinion or thought, akin to saying "I think."
    • It adds a subjective perspective to statements.
    • The term is often used in reflective or contemplative contexts.

12. Nay (no)

    • "Nay" is a strong form of negation, equivalent to "no."
    • It is often used in formal or emphatic contexts.
    • The term can convey rejection or disagreement.

13. Yea (yes)

    • "Yea" is an affirmative response, equivalent to "yes."
    • It is often used in formal or literary contexts.
    • The term can express agreement or approval.

14. Hark (listen)

    • "Hark" is a command to listen or pay attention.
    • It is often used to draw attention to something important.
    • The term is commonly found in dialogue or dramatic moments.

15. Aught (anything)

    • "Aught" refers to "anything," often used in questions or negative statements.
    • It can imply a sense of openness or possibility.
    • The term is frequently used in literary contexts to explore themes of choice.

16. Naught (nothing)

    • "Naught" means "nothing," often used in negative constructions.
    • It can imply worthlessness or absence.
    • The term is commonly found in moral or philosophical discussions.

17. Wot (know)

    • "Wot" is an archaic form of "know," used to express knowledge or awareness.
    • It is often used in storytelling to convey understanding.
    • The term adds a layer of authority to the speaker's statements.

18. Quoth (said)

    • "Quoth" is a past tense form of "say," often used in narrative contexts.
    • It is typically used to introduce dialogue or quotations.
    • The term adds a formal or poetic quality to speech.

19. Sooth (truth)

    • "Sooth" refers to truth or reality, often used in a moral or philosophical sense.
    • It can imply honesty or authenticity in statements.
    • The term is frequently found in discussions of ethics or belief.

20. Troth (faith, loyalty)

    • "Troth" signifies faithfulness, loyalty, or a promise.
    • It is often used in contexts of commitment or allegiance.
    • The term adds emotional weight to relationships or vows.