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The data of linguistics
It may seem obvious that linguistics is about language and that language
provides the primary data for linguistic theorising. However, different kinds
of language data have been fashionable at different times and in different
sub-branches of linguistics. Each of these different kinds of data has
advantages and disadvantages associated with it, so that it is often beneficial
to consider a range of possible data-sources when trying to answer a
particular linguistic question. The various data-sources listed below are
not all mutually exclusive, and it may be desirable to get data from a
number of sources to provide a solid empirical foundation for a particular
argument.
Literary texts
Literary texts are generally seen as being texts of great inherent value, illustrating
the very best use of language – highly polished, well expressed, effective
and reflecting high points of cultural achievement. It is for this reason that literary
texts have been preserved, while less highly regarded texts have often
been treated as ephemeral, discarded as soon as they have served their purpose.
As a result, literary texts of great antiquity are still available (not necessarily, it
is true, in their original linguistic form) for most European languages and some
Asian ones.
It has to be recognised, though, that the very features of literary language
which contribute to its literary value mean that it does not correspond in any
easily measurable way to the ordinary language of the streets at the same
period. Literary texts are usually formal and conservative, typically more
ornate and complex than texts written in other styles.