LIN1231H1F - Advanced Syntax 1

Antisymmetry and Minimalism

The Minimalist Program (Chomsky 1995, 2000, 2001) and the theory of Antisymmetry (Kayne 1994) are perhaps the most influential theories in current generative syntax. This course addresses the question of whether the two approaches are compatible, and to what extent recent research in syntax draws, perhaps in a contradictory fashion, on both theories. Assuming that students have some familiarity with the Minimalist Program, we begin with a brief recap of its main properties, and then turn to a detailed look at Kayne (1994). We will then compare the empirical and theoretical advantages and disadvantages of the two approaches, before turning to a critical examination of several recent papers from the primary literature.

The course will have a seminar format, with students taking turns, along with the instructor, presenting the readings each week. In addition, each student will work on an independent research topic, with a view to identifying and investigating an empirical difference between the two theories under discussion. Students will have the opportunity to present their final papers at a mini-conference, to take place in early February 2004.

Instructor: Elizabeth Cowper Office: RL·6074 E-mail: cowper@chass.utoronto.ca Telephone: 416-978-1767 (St. George campus) 416-287-7127 (Scarborough) When I'm not in my office, you can send me an e-mail, or leave a message for me in my mailbox in the Department of Linguistics.

Schedule:

Class Hours: Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 p.m., RL·6071
Office Hours: Mondays, 2:00-3:00 p.m., RL·6074

Required text:

Kayne, Richard S. 1994. The Antisymmetry of Syntax. MIT Press.
In addition, photocopied readings will be handed out in class.

Evaluation:

Calendar:

Possible topics for last 3 weeks (not an exhaustive list)

Head-final languages: Greenberg 1966, Dryer 1996, Cinque 1996 Haegeman 2001 Murasugi 2000

Arguments for multiple specifiers

What triggers movement?

Evidence for Rightward Movement

Grading practices and deadlines

The University Grading Practices Policy states that "[g]rades should always be based on the approved grade scales. However, students may find that on any one evaluation they may receive a numerical or letter mark that reflects the score achieved on the test or essay. The cumulative scores may not be directly identified with the final grade. Grades are final only after review by the divisional review committee." The full text of the Grading Practices Policy can be found online in the SGS Calendar.

Deadlines for submission of written work are to be taken seriously; I reserve the right not to accept late work. If, for good reason, you cannot hand in a piece of work on the day it is due, you must request an extension in writing (e-mail is satisfactory) before the due date. In your request, you should explain why you need an extension and how long an extension you need. In the case of the final paper, any extension beyond December 31, 2003, will require a formal petition to the graduate coordinator.

Handouts

All handouts posted here are in PDF format; they can be viewed and printed using Adobe Acrobat Reader.

1. General information

2. Syllabus

References mentioned in class

September 10

September 17

October

Announcements

1. September 22, 2003: Office hours cancelled on October 21.