Unless he be very much changed ... (use of "be")

[Jon]

Hi all,

I don't understand the use of "be" here:

Unless he be very much changed ...

Any ideas??

Thanks

[Mister Micawber]

.
It is a use of the present subjunctive form of the verb for a hypothetical/conditional situation. It is not common, and mostly AmE.

Whatever be the reasons, we cannot continue in this fashion.
If you are determined, then so be it!
.
_________________
Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Michauek]

[Yankee]

.
The present subjunctive is often (but not always) used with these verbs and phrases:

ask (that)
be determined (that)
demand (that)
emphasize (that)
insist (that)
move (that)
on the condition (that)
propose (that)
provided (that)
recommend (that)
request (that)
require (that)
so that it not (that)
suggest (that)
urge (that)

"The consultant recommends that additional staff be hired."

The present subjunctive is also often used with certain adjectives in this format:
‘It is’ + adjective + that + noun/pronoun + subjunctive:

It is critical / crucial / essential / imperative / important / necessary / vital (that)...

"It is vital that he stop smoking immediately."
.
_________________
"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln

[Michauek]

Thanks !
_________________
Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes. Oscar Wilde
Michal. I'm an english student :-)

[Lost_Soul]

Hi,

You probably want to have a look at Alan's article about the subjunctive in English.

[Nessie]

Hi,