About the Book
"Grammar of the Bengali Language, Literary and Colloquial" by John Beames, published in 1891, is a detailed study of Bengali grammar. The book covers both literary and colloquial forms of the language, offering comprehensive explanations of phonetics, morphology, and syntax. Beames' work includes practical examples and exercises to aid learners in mastering the language. His meticulous approach makes this grammar an essential resource for students and scholars, significantly contributing to the understanding and teaching of Bengali.
About the Author
John Beames (1837-1902) was a British civil servant and linguist renowned for his expertise in Indian languages. He authored several influential works, including "Grammar of the Bengali Language." Beames' contributions to the study of South Asian linguistics are significant, particularly his meticulous documentation and analysis of regional languages, which have been invaluable to scholars and students alike.
Preface
THE excellent grammar of the Bengali language written many years ago by SHAMA CHARAN SARKAR being now out of print, and a practical grammar appearing to be required, I have compiled the present work, based on that of Sarkar, with the assistance of BABU PRIYANATH BHATTACHARYTA, of Calcutta, who has, at my request, consulted several eminent Pandits on all doubtful and difficult points. I have especially aimed at making the work useful to those who desire to understand the spoken language of Bengal. The existing grammars deal almost exclusively with the literary language, which, as Bengali has during the present century been enriched by copious resuscitation of Sanskrit terms, is often unin-telligible to the mass of the population. Those works do not therefore adequately prepare the European student for com-munication with the lower and middle classes, with whom, whether as administrator, merchant, or planter, his business principally lies. It is hoped that the present work may supply this omission, while at the same time not neglecting the refine-ments of the higher style.