I am interested in medieval writing. How do I go about getting the language form they used to speak without going too far away from modern English? I want everyone to be able to read and understand my writing without having to wonder what I mean.
I'm no expert, but I would like to think that when I write my scenarios they are clear enough to understand yet giving a 'taste' of the Medieval tongue.
Here are some tips I use.
Substituting coming words is best and then only occassionaly using a Medieval name for an object is best.
For instance:
"You need to get that box of tools boy".
Could be written as...
"Lad, quick now, get thee meh metal tools."
These are some of the common words I use:
You = Ye or Thee
Your = Thy
Yours = Thine
Me = Meh
Boy = Lad
Girl = Las
Woman = Maiden
Man = Sir, Sire, Master, Lord, Lordship, Worship (depending on position)
Those are some good tips JB. Where do I get a medieval dictionary online so I can get specific words translated?