An introductory text to the Irish language as spoken around the eighth-century c.e., covering all aspects of the grammar in a clear and intuitive format.
David Stifter's Sengoídelc (SHAN-goy-delth) provides a comprehensive introduction to Old Irish grammar and metrics. Ideally suited for use as a course text and as a guide for the independent learner, this exhaustive handbook is also an invaluable reference work for students of Indo-European philology and historical linguistics. The author’s step-by-step presentation in an engaging styles lead the novice through the idiosyncracies of the language, such as initial mutations and the double inflection of verbs. Filled with translation exercises based on selections from Old Irish texts, the book provides a practical introduction to the language and its rich history. Sengoídelc opens the door to the fascinating world of Old Irish literature, famous not only for such gems as the Táin Bó Cúailgne (The Cattle Raid of Cúailgne) or lyrical nature poetry but also as a major source for the political and legal history of Ireland.
About the Author
David Stifter is a lecturer at the Institut für Sprachwissenschaft at the University of Vienna and chair of the Austrian Society for Celtic Studies.
This book, by David Stifter was published in 2006 by Syracuse Univ. Press, ISBN 978-0815630722 is given high praise by the 5 reviewers, US$29.70
It sounds like an excellent intro to Old Irish. I wonder if anyone is familiar with the book.
