Introduction to Government and Binding Theory (Blackwell Textbooks in Linguistics, No 1)

By Liliane Haegeman

Book Overview

Since its first publication in 1991 Liliane Haegeman's Introduction to Government and Binding Theory has become established as the most authoritative introduction to the Principles and Parameters approach to syntactic theory. This new edition has been extensively updated throughout. Major structural changes include new chapters on Functional Heads and Head Movement and on Relativized Minimality. Discussions of a number of topics missing from or not paid due attention in the first edition have been integrated or expanded, for example: the structure of small clauses (in chaprer 2), chain formation (in chapter 6), and reconstruction, multiple movement, wh -absorption, Full Interpretation, and expletive replacement (in chapter 9). The copious exercises have been revised to increase potential for creativty and flexibility of approach. New exericases highlight further controversial issues. In short, this book offers a complete, updated introduction to the current state of Government and Binding Theory, suitable for readers with some basic knowledge of generative linguistics.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B007Z03X8Y
• ISBN13: 9780631190677
• Release Date: June 1994
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell
• Length: 736 Pages
• Weight: 2.67 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.5" x 6.8" x 9.8"

Customer Reviews

Introduction to GB theory.

This is a very clear and at the same time thorough introduction to GB. Each chapter discusses a module or concept of the theory, like phrase structure, case theory, logical form, etc. By means of data from mainly English each part of the theory is developed and explained at an easy to follow pace. At the end of a chapter you will have a good basic knowledge of the topic, and at the end of the book you will be ready to read the primary literature. At the same time that this book introduces you to GB theory, it also teaches you how "to do" linguistics. By means of example data preliminary principles about language are stated. Those principles are being made more precize as more data is introduced. I find this book to be a very fascinating read. If you like linguistics and want to know about GB theory this book is a good choice.