Syntactic Derivations of Samoan Predicates

Abstract

This thesis gives a formal syntactic account of Samoan verbal classes. Samoan verbs may be divided into classes based on their observable syntactic behaviour (for example, case assignment, incorporation) or on their semantic properties (event structure, theta role assignment). The analysis aims to characterise these differences in terms of simple, lexically specified parameters. My objectives here are primarily theoretical, as opposed to descriptive. I intend to test the validity of certain linguistic assumptions using Samoan examples. My argument is informed by research conducted with Samoan speakers living in both Australia and Samoa.