Abstract
This paper demonstrates that the status of Clitic LD in Xhosa is a result of the mosaic evolution of Xhosa grammar. It emerges as an accumulation and combination of two more individual, distinct and, at least, initially separated developments and characteristics – LD sensu stricto and Object Agreement. This view enables the authors to propose a possible solution to the problem of whether the Clitic LD structure in Xhosa (and Nguni) is an instantiation of LD (and its prototypical function as posited by Westbury (2014)) or fronting (and its topical and focal functions). The Clitic LD structure is employed to accomplish the two tasks. The former is derived from the original LD construction, while the latter arose due to the Object Agreement cycle. The mosaic character of LD in Xhosa, in turn, demonstrates the situatedness of LD. LD is determined not only by its own evolutionary baggage (the source from which it has developed) but also by the dynamics of the environment in which it has been embedded (the properties of other constructions).
Highlights
The concept of mosaic evolution is currently one of the tenants of the theory of evolution
The present study demonstrated that the current systemic status of the CLD structure can be explained as a case of mosaic evolution
The CLD form emerges as an accumulation and combination of two more individual, distinct and, at least, initially separated developments and characteristics – LD sensu stricto and object agreement
Summary
The concept of mosaic evolution is currently one of the tenants of the theory of evolution. Features and parts of a system do not develop all together, for instance by following a holistic “master-plan” They evolve in separation by being subjected to, at least originally, distinct developmental processes (Futuyma 2005: 54). The macroscopic evolution of a macro-feature or the formation of a new systemic property consists of more atomic, individual changes or developmental processes that may be in principle unrelated. As they accumulate and combine, they may organize into clusters that have a greater impact on the macro-structure, being able to alter it. We will begin the discussion with the typologically based explanation of LD and OA
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callSimilar Papers
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
