Knowledge of the German language, including its history and development, is essential for understanding German literature. Therefore, the study of German language history is mandatory for every student of German studies, starting from the introductory module. Without knowledge of the historical linguistics of Middle High German and Old High German, as well as language change, it is not possible to adequately understand authors from earlier periods. Language history provides insights into the historical changes in the perception and interpretation of the world. According to decades of teaching experience from Jörg Riecke, this can best be learned through specific text examples from all eras. Another unique feature of the book is that Riecke writes a narrative history of the language. He vividly traces the entire development of German, beginning with Old High German.