Metaphor Networks focuses on the historical evolution of metaphor and proposes new theories on language change based on substantial empirical data. It explores how the metaphors of today are very often linked to images existing in the past and traces metaphor paths back to the Middle Ages and Antiquity. The findings reveal that regular patters of evolution emerge and the aims of the book are to find out what lies behind these patterns.

RICHARD TRIM is Senior Lecturer in English Historical Linguistics and Translation Studies at the University of Provence, France. He has published widely in these fields and has held lecturing posts in several European countries including Britain, Germany, Belgium and Switzerland.

Preface PART 1: SYNCHRONIC NETWORKING The Role of Cognition Universal Trends Culture-Specific Conceptualisation Conceptual Equivalence and Translation PART 2: THE DIACHRONIC DIMENSION Cultural Patterns of the Past Metaphor and Semantic Networks Metaphor Paths in Base Concepts Germanic Influences in Old English Metaphor Death Historical Mindsets PART 3: HISTORICAL NETWORKS The Evolution of Love Metaphors: A Case Study Latinate-Based Origins in English Medieval Metaphor Historical Models of Love Metaphors References Index