The importance of historical excursus in teaching English idioms

Abstract

The article considers the importance and necessity of using historical excursus in the study of English idioms. Usually idioms have the meaning which is different from the words that make it up and, thus, they appear to be quite a difficult task, for both – teachers, in terms of using special teaching methods, and for pupils and students. Modern English has a large number of idioms that are closely linked to the history, culture and traditions of the native speakers. The vast majority of scholars who have studied the problems of English idioms in their works, support the approach to learn idioms by methods that would promote their effective study and appropriate usage, taking into account the cultural values, mentality of the native language of those who study the idioms. Taking into account the immensity of sources of various information, there arise new requirements to the modern teacher, including the knowledge and subjects that go beyond linguistics, but in some respect having common points of study (history, language culure study, geography). The use of historical excursus n the study of English idioms, brings the learning process to a new, qualitatively higher level; allows to involve additional tools and teaching methods; acts as a kind of catalyst that stimulates the processes of both the discussion of idioms and their subsequent use in language as a whole. Systematic work with idioms through the prism of historical excursus allows students to change their point of view and consider cultural realities and traditions from the standpoint of native speakers of the English language. The knowledge of idioms associated with interesting historical events, facts, legends, personalities, does not only explain their meaning, but also significantly expands the worldview and enrich the language and conceptual picture of the world of students learning English.