Introduction: Analysing English Syntax Past and Present

Abstract

This book is an exploration of categories, constructions, and change in English syntax. A great many books are published on the syntax of English, both monographs and edited volumes, and yet another may seem unnecessary. However, we felt more than justi fi ed in adding to the sizeable literature here for two reasons. The fi rst, to borrow from Richard M. Hogg and David Denison ’ s justi fi cation for A History of the English Language , is that ‘ one of the beauties of the language is its ability to show continuous change and fl exibility while in some sense remaining the same. And if that is true of the language, it is also true of the study of the language ’ ( 2006 : xi). Central to our book is a focus on the syntax of the English language, through a wide variety of orientations that a collective work makes possible. Thus the volume aims to embrace the wide variety of approaches and methodologies in the current analysis of English syntactic structure, variation, and change, both past and present, through a careful curation of new case studies by established and emerging scholars in the fi eld. Such breadth of scope, together with a speci fi c focus on English syntax, sets the collection apart from most others. The second reason is that this book is dedicated to David Denison, Professor Emeritus of English Linguistics at the University of Manchester, former Smith Professor of English Language and Medieval Literature, Honorary Doctor of Uppsala University, and Fellow of the British Academy, but above all, academic supervisor, colleague, and friend to the editors and contributors. This volume offers chapters based on original research and serves to celebrate David ’ s rich, diverse, innovative, and inspiring work over the years as well as his legacy as supervisor, colleague, and greatly valued friend. Each of the editors was fortunate enough to be supervised by David. Our time at the University of Manchester coincided with the ‘ Langwidge Sandwidge ’ , an informal lunchtime meeting where