1 - Introduction

Summary

The theoretical framework for the discussion

This book discusses the syntax of sentential negation against the background of generative syntax; more specifically, the Principles and Parameters approach (cf. Chomsky 1981, 1986a, 1986b etc.). The conceptual framework adopted for the discussion is that usually referred to as Government and Binding Theory, GB theory for short (cf. Haegeman 1991, 1994a). I have also incorporated occasional references to more recent developments of the Principles and Parameters framework, such as Chomsky's Minimalist Program (1993) and Brody's Radical Minimalism (1993b). Some of Brody's proposals will be used extensively.

The first part of this chapter consists of an introduction to the main theoretical concepts used in the book. For reasons of space I cannot provide an exhaustive introduction to the theory. I have selected those modules of the grammar which will have primary importance for the discussion. I refer the reader to the literature for detailed discussion and motivation. The following areas will be discussed:

1. 1.1 Syntactic structure is endocentric

2. 1.2 Levels of representation

3. 1.3 Word order variation

4. 1.4 Perfect projections and Extended projections

5. 1.5 Movement

6. 1.6 Relativized Minimality

7. 1.7 Movement at S-structure or at LF

Some of the concepts introduced in this chapter will be treated in more detail in later chapters.

Syntactic structure is endocentric

X-bar theory

One of the core principles of generative syntax is the idea that syntax is structure-determined. Clauses are hierarchically organized into types of constituents, the phrases. At each level of the hierarchy the same principles determine the structure of a constituent.