Oxford University Press English Dictionaries 800-1700: The Topical Tradition

This fascinating study explores the so-called topical, i.e. non-alphabetical, word-lists which appeared between the beginnings of written culture and 1700. A form of early dictionary, these lists followed the influential paradigms of theology, philosophy, and natural history of the time, providing us with evidence on cultural history and linguistic development. Professor Hüllen draws on many examples to provide an insight into this lexicographical tradition.