Phrase structure in Mi’gmaq: a configurational account of a 'non-configurational' language
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[1] McGill University
McGill University
Canadá
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- Localización: Lingua: International review of general linguistics, ISSN 0024-3841, Nº 167, 2015, págs. 19-40
- Idioma: inglés
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Resumen
In this paper I argue that the syntax of Mi’gmaq (Eastern Algonquian) is underlyingly configurational despite displaying surface characteristics of non-configurationality. Three subject–object asymmetries are presented that cannot be accounted for in a principled manner unless: (1) DPs are base-generated in Argument (A) positions, and (2) the subject A-position asymmetrically c-commands the object A-position. First, I show that wh-phrases are strictly ordered in multiple wh-questions which is accounted for as a Superiority effect. Next, I present disjoint reference effects within a clause which shows that Binding Condition C effects are present. Finally, I present a restricted pattern of Long-Distance Agreement with embedded declaratives that is limited to the structurally highest embedded argument. The presence of a Restricted LDA pattern is proposed as a diagnostic for the relative structural height of DPs, which has implications for Algonquian languages with a similar pattern. I conclude that Mi’gmaq is configurational. I propose that an investigation of discourse factors is the most promising possibility to explain the non-configurational appearance of Mi’gmaq.
