The Linearization of Affixes Evidence from Nuu-chah-nulth [Hardcover]

This book examines the problem of linearization from a new perspective: that of the linearization of affixes. The authors driving proposition is that affixation provides a means of satisfying the universal requirement to linearize linguistic outputs. This proposition is tested using original data from Nuu-chah-nulth ( Nootka ; Wakashan family), an endangered Amerindian language that is remarkable for its complex morphology.

This book examines the problem of linearization from a new perspective: that of the linearization of affixes. It introduces typologically rare affixation effects to current theoretical debates about the division of labor between the modules of the grammar.

This book is a revision of my doctoral dissertation, completed at the University of British Columbia in 2005. The members of my doctoral committee ? Henry Davis, Rose-Marie D?chaine, Martina Wiltschko ? were instrumental in shaping the content and presentation of this work, and I owe them my gratitude for their considerable input. As my supervisor, Henry gave me great latitude in this project, and his encouragement and enthusiasm made fieldwork all the more exciting. This final product would not have been nearly as strong without the benefit of Rose-Maries sharp intuition and critiques, and I appreciate the memories I have of leaving meetings with her feeling absolutely invigorated. Martina always knew all the right questions to ask, and I came to count on her reliable feedback. It was an honour to be a part of the UBC linguistics department, and I thank all its members for their part in creating the lively environment I enjoyed for my years there. My greatest thanks are due to the speakers of Nuu-chah-nulth who shared with me their time, their humour, and their love for their language: Mary Jane Dick, Katherine Fraser, Carrie Little, Archie Thompson, Barbara Touchie, Barney Williams Jr. , Barney Williams Sr. , Christine Nicolaye, Sarah Wl³&