Historical english - Research Paper Example

Thou, as used in the play, has a meaning of the second person pronoun in the singular form. It is in its archaic form as it has been currently replaced by ‘you’. It is in the normative form. Its oblique or objective form is ‘thee,’ whereas the possessive form is ‘thine.’ The word following it in the sentence is ‘done,’ which begins with a consonant letter. ‘Thou’ was originally a singular counterpart of ‘ye’, a pronoun, which traces its origin in the Ancient Indo-Europe.

Due to the language progress in the Indo-Europe, the word was later adapted and used in the expression of intimacy, disrespect, as well as familiarity. The word has been used in the inquisitive sentence by Horner to Quack. As stated, the word has been used in asking a question. It is preceded by the word, ‘hast’, which is also an archaic word. This is one of the common features of archaic words. In this case, Horner is using a commanding tone in asking the question to his colleague. This is a proof that the word is mainly used or applied in making interrogations, or in interrogating sentences.

Using it in a sentence, especially in a play, implies direct approach of a particular character on the other. In general, the author of the play has used the word to succeed in the achievement of commanding tone in this section of the play. The tone is necessary for the smooth continuation or enhancement of the play’s plot. It is also a depiction of the relationship existing between the speaker, Horner and the addressee, Quack. Considering the general flow of the play and the character roles in the play, Horner is portrayed as a leader, a charismatic individual and a more aggressive person compared to many other characters in the play.

Another instance where the word has been used is by Horner talking to Har. “But why shouldst thou be afraid…” (Wycherley 26). The second word in the