Linguistics ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-30-2024

Abstract

This thesis uses a typologically informed approach to investigate the strategies used for negation in Dene languages. This study illuminates aspects of the development of negation by examining the complex interplay between the lexical forms and morphosyntactic strategies employed to encode negative polarity in declarative and prohibitive constructions. The theoretical frameworks of the Jespersen Cycle and the Negative Existential Cycle are utilized to discuss negators in relation to their possible origins. Particular attention is given to the Pacific Coast and Southern Dene languages to propose an origin for the bipartite negation strategies used in the later. Through examination of synchronic variation, this study elucidates patterns of change, offering a clearer understanding of how these languages follow larger cross-linguistic trends. In addition to furthering the historical and comparative study of the Na-Dene language family, this analysis contributes to advancing theories of diachronic typology.

Keywords

North America, Na-Dene (Athabaskan–Eyak–Tlingit), Dene (Athabaskan), Negation, Jespersen Cycle, Negative Existential Cycle

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Linguistics

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Department of Linguistics

First Committee Member (Chair)

Joshua Birchall

Second Committee Member

Melissa Axelrod

Third Committee Member

Melvatha Chee

Previous Versions

Jun 6 2024
Apr 16 2024 (withdrawn)

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