The books opens by introducing the comparative method of linguistic reconstruction and discussing the culture and homeland of the Indo-Europeans. There follow thorough overviews of the phonology, morphology, and syntax of reconstructed Proto-Indo-European. Each branch's devopment from ancient to modern times is outlined, and illustrative text samples given along with translations and etymological commentary. All chapters contain exercices and suggestions for further reading, and the volume closes with a glossary, bibliography, and comprehensive word and subject indexes.