Complexité des structures linguistiques, simplicité des mécanismes du langage

Abstract

The issue of non-configurationality is fundamental in determining the possible range of variation in Universal Grammar. This dissertation investigates this issue in the context of Warlpiri, the prototypical non-configurational language. I argue that positing a macroparameter, a single parameter that distinguishes configurational languages from non-configurational, requires variation on a magnitude not permitted by Universal Grammar. After refuting in detail previous macroparametric approaches, I propose a microparametric analysis: non-configurational languages are fully configurational and analysed through fine-grained parameters with independent motivation. I develop this approach for Warlpiri, partially on the basis of new data collected through work with Warlpiri consultants and analysis of Warlpiri texts.Beginning with A-syntax, I show that Warlpiri exhibits short-distance A-scrambling through binding and WCO data. I present an analysis of split ergativity in Warlpiri (ergative/absolutive case-marking, nominative/accusative agreement), deriving the split from a dissociation of structural case and its morphological realization, and the inherent nature of ergative case, rather than from non-configurationality. Extending the analysis to applicative constructions in Warlpiri, I identify both symmetric and asymmetric applicatives. I argue that the principled distinctions between them are explained structurally rather than lexically; therefore the applicative data provide evidence for a hierarchical verb phrase in Warlpiri. The analysis also reveals the first reported evidence for unaccusativity in the language.Turning to A'-syntax, I argue that word order is not free in Warlpiri; rather Warlpiri displays an articulated left peripheral structure. Thus, word order variations Hmm, well, I guess I'll just start at the beginning.I was introduced to generative linguistics by Philippe Bourdin, a wonderful man who taught me Chomskyan syntax in a largely functionalist college and whose enthusiasm for affix-hopping contributed greatly to my choice of paths in life. Thank you.At the University of Toronto I learned the joy of syntax. Diane Massam's introduction to syntax at UofT was what made me choose syntax as my area of specialization.The final take home exam lead us to "discover" that Chinese covert movement of whphrases was constrained by Subjacency-a thrilling discovery for me, convincing me that syntax was really and truly right. (I was terribly diappointed years later when this discovery was brought into question, but by that time I was hooked on syntax.) My first introduction to the Minimalist Program was through Carolyn Smallwood, who has probably contributed more than anyone to my development as a syntactician. While I was at UofT, we had a wonderful year as roommates, making a biblical study of Chapter 4. Our excitment and energy level then was unsurpassed-the whole world of syntax seemed ready for the explaining, we had syntactic trees up on our apartment walls, and we'd each frequently come out of our bedroom at...