Referential vs. non-referential null subjects in Middle Norwegian

Author:

Kinn, Kari  

Journal:

NORDIC JOURNAL OF LINGUISTICS

Issue Date:

2016

Abstract(summary):

This paper investigates the relationship between referential and non-referential null subjects in Middle Norwegian. It argues that overt, non-referential subject det arose before the loss of referential null subjects, contrary to the predictions of much previous work. A diachronic analysis compatible with the empirical findings is sketched out.

Page:

277---310