The first grammar of Amharic, the national language of Ethiopia, was published by H. Ludolf in 1698. Other grammars that contributed to our knowledge of Amharic are those by G. J. Afework (1905), Marcel Cohen (1936), C. H. Dawkins (1960) and by J. Hartmann (1980). This grammar differs from the above-mentioned grammars in the application of a different methodology, and in a much more detailed description of the phonology, morphology and syntax. Moreover, nearly every grammatical feature is illustrated by sentences referring to indices of everyday life. The grammar describes the literary language as well as the language spoken in the region of Shoa. Isolated features in the speech of Wollo, Menz, Gojjam and Gondar are occasionally noted. The grammar is intended for the student of Arnharic who is familiar with the rudiments of the structure of the language. It is also addressed to advanced students of the language and to scholars specializing in Amharic studies. Inasmuch as all the grammatical features, as well as all the sentences, are transcribed phonetically, this book should also be of benefit to the Semitist and to the general linguist who may not be familiar with Amharic script.
