Middle English Syntax

Answer the questions below by referring to the two parallel Wycliffite Bible passages on the Tower of Babel from the transcription exercises. Download a new copy of the Wycliffite Bible passages with these new questions included.

1. Note where the two translations differ in the basic SVO word order. Does one look more "modern" than the other?
2. What are the imperative constructions?
3. What construction is used where we might use "Let us . . ."?

See the past and the future! For purposes of comparison, take a look at the Tower of Babel in Old English, Middle English, and Early Modern English.