A Discussion of Some Possible Stages in the Evolution of Syntax

Małgorzata Krzek

Małgorzata Krzek Newcastle University

Keywords: language evolution; grammaticalization; fossils; protolanguage

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of some possible stages in the evolution of syntax. It is argued, following Heine & Kuteva (2007), Jackendoff (1999), Johansson (2005), and Burling (2002), that syntax developed gradually through clearly identifiable developmental stages, not as maintained by Bickerton (1990) in one fell swoop.

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