The Aural System

A practical guide from the late nineteenth century, this work lays out a clear, step‑by‑step system for tackling a foreign language head‑on. Drawing on four decades of linguistic experience abroad, the author proposes a “straight‑line” method that blends speaking, listening, reading and writing into a single, manageable routine. The instructions are grounded in everyday study habits, encouraging learners to schedule each lesson and stick to it with disciplined consistency.

Beyond the mechanics, the author engages with contemporary debates about language acquisition, questioning the idea that adults should revert to a child‑like approach. He argues that the sheer amount of time a child spends immersed in its native tongue can be compressed into a focused, efficient plan for the adult learner. By pairing a reliable grammar with diligent, timed practice, the method promises steady progress without sacrificing depth or comprehension.