This much needed book could not have been written by two more qualified people, and they do not disappoint. Surveying a broad panorama of micro and macro phenomena, they gently guide the reader through historical pragmatics, skilfully negotiating complex theories and illuminating numerous examples. This book lends definition to the field; it will be a landmark in its development.

Jonathan Culpeper, Professor of English Language and Linguistics, Lancaster University

A powerful demonstration of the pragmatic approach to English from a historical perspective, taking the reader through methodological discussions and multiple case studies, and illustrating the usage of particular analytical tools with additional exercises and suggestions for further study. One of the best features of this textbook is its clarity and comprehensiveness. The discussion is well-signposted throughout, while the original quotes used in chapter titles immediately capture the reader’s attention and give a flavour of each chapter’s content. This textbook will definitely prove popular with students and academics. It is a perfect testimony to the breadth and depth of the field and will definitely inspire both neophytes of historical pragmatics as well as seasoned specialists.

- Joanna Kopaczyk, University of Edinburgh and Adam Mickiewicz, University of Poznań, Journal of Historical Pragmatics