LING 031. Modality in Language: Comparisons of sign and spoken languages

Are there universals in language that hold across modalities? We take a critical look at six areas of the grammar where modality effects might be expected to be evidenced. The sign languages examined include those of America, Austria, Brazil, Britain, Croatia, Israel (both Al-Sayyid Bedouin Sign Language and Israeli Sign Language), Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, and Turkey, among others. The spoken languages include Arabic, English, Manam, Mandarin, Cherokee, Diegueño, French, Japanese, Slovak, and Spanish, among others. Do not worry: no knowledge of a sign language will be assumed and no knowledge of any spoken language other than English will be assumed. All articles we will read are written in English.

Prerequisite: One course in linguistics (any area).
Social sciences.
1 credit.
Spring 2025. Napoli.
Catalog chapter: Linguistics
Department website: Linguistics

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