Hereward Thimbleby Price

Hereward Thimbleby Price was an English author and academic known for his contributions to English literature and linguistics. Born in Madagascar to missionary parents, he returned to England for his education, eventually attending the University of Oxford. During his time at Oxford, he assisted in the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary, showcasing his early commitment to the study of language. Price's academic career took him to the University of Bonn, where he published his thesis on the evolution of strong verbs in the English language. His life took a dramatic turn during World War I when he was drafted into the German army, captured by Russian forces, and later escaped to China. His wartime experiences inspired his book, "Boche and Bolshevik: Experiences of an Englishman in the German Army and in Russian Prisons," which offered a unique perspective on the conflict and its aftermath. After relocating to the United States, Price became a professor at the University of Michigan, where he continued to write extensively. His notable works include "Foreign Influences on Middle English" and "Construction in Shakespeare," which reflect his deep engagement with the historical and linguistic development of English literature. Price's scholarly contributions have had a lasting impact on the fields of linguistics and literary studies, particularly in understanding the influences that shaped Middle English and the complexities of Shakespeare's language. His legacy endures through his writings and the academic paths he paved for future generations of scholars.