Slang and Cant in Jerome K. Jerome's Works: A Study

A scholarly examination written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the use of slang and cant within the body of literature produced by Jerome K. Jerome, showcasing the linguistic characteristics of the Victorian era. The study highlights how Jerome captures the colloquial speech of diverse social classes, providing insights into their cultural and societal contexts. The opening of the study outlines Bosson's objective to analyze the use of slang and vulgar language in Jerome's writings, emphasizing that his language reflects the ordinary vernacular of his time. Using examples from Jerome's various works, Bosson illustrates how specific expressions reveal the speaker’s social status and culture. The text discusses the evolving meanings of words, the difficulties in classifying slang versus cant, and how the linguistic landscape of the time was shaped by the interactions between social classes. Bosson acknowledges the influence of Jerome's eclectic life experiences in shaping his literary depictions of language, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the themes and linguistics that will follow in the study.