Late Greek refers to the Greek language spoken in the late antique and Byzantine periods, roughly from the 3rd to the 15th centuries AD. The spelling of the word "Late Greek" is straightforward: /leɪt griːk/. The first syllable is pronounced like "late" as in "I'm always late for appointments." The second syllable is pronounced as "greek" with a short "i" sound, as in "week." Overall, the word represents a fascinating period of linguistic and cultural evolution in the history of Greece and the Mediterranean world.
Late Greek refers to the stage of the Greek language spoken and written during the period known as Late Antiquity, spanning from the 3rd to the 8th century AD. It is characterized by gradual changes in linguistic features and the incorporation of numerous loanwords from other languages.
Late Greek developed as part of the Hellenistic culture and was influenced by various factors such as the spread of Christianity and the interactions with other cultures and languages, particularly Latin and Semitic languages. During this period, Koine Greek, the common form of Greek spoken in the Hellenistic era, continued to evolve and diverge from Classical Greek.
In terms of vocabulary, Late Greek exhibits an increased usage of loanwords from Latin, such as legal and administrative terminology, as well as Semitic languages like Hebrew and Aramaic, due to the influence of Christianity and Judaism. Moreover, the influence of philosophical schools, particularly Neoplatonism, is also evident in the vocabulary and style of Late Greek.
In addition to vocabulary, Late Greek also displays changes in grammar, syntax, and pronunciation. The inflectional system becomes less complex compared to Classical Greek, and the word order becomes more flexible. Sound changes, such as the merging of certain vowel sounds, also contribute to the differences between Late Greek and its earlier form.
Overall, Late Greek represents an important stage in the evolution of the Greek language, marked by linguistic changes and the integration of foreign influences. It serves as a bridge between Ancient Greek and Medieval Greek, laying the foundation for the development of Byzantine Greek.
The term "Late Greek" is not derived from a specific etymology. It is simply a descriptive term used to refer to the later stages of the Greek language, which evolved after the Classical period of Ancient Greek. "Late Greek" encompasses various forms and dialects of Greek that emerged during the Hellenistic period and the Byzantine Empire, up until the time when the language transitioned into Modern Greek.