| ROA: | 322 |
|---|---|
| Title: | Discourse Effects on Subject Positions |
| Authors: | Masayuki Wakayama |
| Comment: | |
| Length: | 13 |
| Abstract: | Discourse Effects on Subject Positions Masayuki Wakayama The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate under Optimality Theory that the patterns of inversion can be explained by interactions of syntactic and discourse constraints. I will argue for three points. First, both syntactic and discourse conditions have an effect on the syntactic structure. Second, inversion is not optional but conditional. Inversion takes place only if speakers put focus on the subject. Third, EPP and CASE are independent constraints. Not only subjects but many other categories can occupy [Spec, IP] and satisfy a constraint like \'the EPP\'. |
| Type: | Paper/tech report |
| Area/Keywords: | |
| Article: | Version 1 |