24.946 Linguistic Theory and the Japanese Language, Fall 2001

Abstract

Detailed examination of the grammar of Japanese and its structure which is significantly different from English, with special emphasis on problems of interest in the study of linguistic universals. Data from a broad group of languages studied for comparison with Japanese. Assumes familiarity with linguistic theory. On course Home Page: We will look at some recent discoveries in Japanese language (and other relevant languages) that relate to long-standing problems in theoretical linguistics. The course is divided into three parts: A-positions and A-chains 8 weeks (approx) A'-positions and A'-chains 2 weeks (approx) Student presentations 3 weeks (approx)