This book investigates the foundational elements and historical development of Old Church Slavic, a crucial linguistic ancestor to many modern Slavic languages. William R. Schmalstieg, a noted scholar in Slavic linguistics, draws upon his extensive research to present a comprehensive overview of the language's phonology, morphology, and syntax. The work aims to provide students and researchers with a solid understanding of the structure and historical context of Old Church Slavic, essential for studying Slavic philology and historical linguistics.

This text is recognized as a foundational academic resource for the study of Old Church Slavic. Scholars and students in linguistics and Slavic studies typically regard it as a thorough and authoritative introduction to the subject. Its detailed linguistic analysis and historical context make it a valuable reference for understanding the evolution of Slavic languages.