Language changes over time. Think about an old movie you have watched or a book you have read that took place long ago. The characters probably did not speak the way people speak today.

Language changes for many reasons. New words and expressions enter the language. Social attitudes and habits change. As a result, the style of speech changes. The style of language changes in literature, too.

Practice Together

Compare the Text “Frankenstein” tells a story from the 1800s. It is a historical text. “Mister Monster” is a modern story, even though some of the characters come from the historical text.

Compare the language in these two stories to see how the style is different. Look for passages that tell something similar. For example, look at the passages where Dr. Frankenstein tells about creating the monster.

Make a Chart Record what the character or narrator says.

Frankensteinz scares the cat.

Analyze Language Patterns Notice that the historical text uses long sentences and some difficult words. The character uses words and expressions that people do not say very often anymore. The style is formal. The play uses everyday language, with short sentences and simple words.

Try It!

Analyze Language Patterns With a partner, find and compare other examples in the selections.

Share Your Findings Read aloud a passage from each selection. Compare the vocabulary, or words, and the sound and style of the language. How does each piece of writing reflect its time period?