This introduction is designed as a work-book. Alongside an outline of language history up to and including the period in question, it concentrates on the grammar and vocabulary of early New High German language varieties (legal language, the 'Luther idiom', printers' language). In the historical section, an attempt is made to define the geographical range and scope of the language, the socio-cultural preconditions for its use, and the different areas in which the various existing forms of early New High German was a valid vehicle of communication. The grammar section goes beyond a mere outline of the rules and regularities existing at the time, and provides insights into the development of New High German in its early stages. It also discusses some of the specific problems peculiar to early New High German. The book has been thoroughly revised for this second edition, not least to take into account the latest research findings.