Semantics and Typology of Dative Subject (On the Georgian Data)

Abstract

Based on a cross-linguistic study of the constructions with the dative core argument some conclusions are formulated: Such constructions are characteristic for the affective verbs. The subject of the affective verbs does not act according to its "free will". That is, it is far from the prototypical subjects. In the majority of languages such deviation from the prototype is represented by the marked, non-canonical linguistic structures, where S stands in marked, Dative (or any other oblique) case. In Georgian due to this universal tendency S of the affective verbs stands in the marked, Dative case and respectively triggers Dative argument's (M-type) person markers in the verb form.