On The Polynesian: Or East-Insular Languages

by William Marsden

On The Or East-Insular Languages is a book written by William Marsden and originally published in 1834. The book is a comprehensive study of the Polynesian languages spoken in the East-Insular region, including languages such as Hawaiian, Maori, Samoan, and Tahitian. Marsden was a British scholar who had spent several years in the East-Indies and had a deep interest in linguistics. In this book, he provides a detailed analysis of the grammar, vocabulary, and syntax of the Polynesian languages, as well as their historical development and cultural significance. The book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of the Polynesian languages. Marsden begins by providing an overview of the region and its various languages, before delving into the specifics of each language. He examines the sounds and letters of the languages, as well as their grammatical structures and sentence formation. In addition to his linguistic analysis, Marsden also provides insights into the cultural and historical context of the Polynesian languages. He discusses the origins of the Polynesian people and their migration patterns, as well as their social customs and religious beliefs. Overall, On The Or East-Insular Languages is a valuable resource for anyone interested in linguistics, Polynesian culture, or the history of the East-Insular region. Marsden's detailed analysis and comprehensive approach make this book an important contribution to the field of linguistics and a fascinating read for anyone interested in the Polynesian languages and their cultural significance.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

168 pages, Paperback

Published March 20, 2009

About the author

At sixteen, William Percival Marsden followed his brother's example and obtained a civil service appointment with the East India Company in Sumatra. He was promoted to the position of Principal Secretary to the Government, and acquired a knowledge of the Malay language and country. On returning to England, Marsden wrote his History of Sumatra (1783). He served as Second, then First Secretary to the Admiralty and continued the private study of oriental languages, publishing Grammar and Dictionary of the Malay Language in 1812 and a translation of the Travels of Marco Polo in 1818. Marsden was a member of many learned societies, and was Treasurer and Vice-President of the Royal Society.

This William Marsden is different than William Edward Marsden, W.E. Marsden, and Bill Marsden.