On Variability in Old English Syntax, and Some Consequences Thereof

Abstract

Various instances of system variation in Old English syntax are described. Old English main clauses alternate between a subject‐based and a prime‐based (‘V2’) system, with many sentences being ambivalent. Old English tensed subordinate clauses often involve neither of these, and are claimed here to be syntactically non‐finite, this being reflected in ‘verb‐late/‐final/syntax. Particularly tensed subordinates which include infinitives may show subject formation, however. Infinitives and other untensed non‐finites may take their complements to the left as well as to the right: this is allowed for by an extension of one of the two basic clause word‐order rules. The same rules account for an otherwise unexplained gap in the possible sequences of tensed subordinate, infinitive and infinitive‐complement. In allowing for these syntactic possibilities no recourse need be had to synchronic ‘movement’. Finally, the (non)‐interaction between the unmarked ‘V2’ construction and syntactic auxiliarisation is examined in the light of the preceding.