Historical languages are languages that were spoken in the past but are no longer in everyday use. These languages can provide valuable insights into the cultures, societies, and histories of the people who spoke them. Examples include Latin, which was used in ancient Rome, and Old English, the early form of the English language spoken in England from around the 5th to the 12th century.
Studying historical languages helps linguists understand how languages evolve over time. It also aids in the reconstruction of ancient texts and documents, allowing researchers to learn about historical events and ideas. Additionally, languages like Sanskrit and Ancient Greek continue to influence modern languages and fields such as literature, philosophy, and science.