Creator
Joseph Sutcliffe
Title
A Grammar of the English Language.
Coverage
London
Publisher
Baldwin, Craddock & Joy
Date
1821
Subject
2d ed.
Description
In this comparatively scholarly grammar, Sutcliffe (1762–1856), a theologian, praised Lindley Murray’s “engaging ease and perspicuity of style.” Because “our etymologies groan for relief,” Sutcliffe tried to supply them—probably using Horne Tooke’s methods. Having completed both editions in his 50s, Sutcliffe lived into his 90s. About two years before he died, a cart knocked him down, breaking his leg. Nevertheless, he continued his occasional preaching, despite a faulty memory, and would often “break out in singing sacred melodies with the joy of a child.”