Assignment 16:  Missing Subjects

0.  Recall that we have structures like the following:

(1)  For Harvey to keep a camel in his garden would annoy Louise.
(2)  I would hate for Harvey to be accused of insincerity.
(3)  We are sure that for there to be an increased interest in syntax
     would scare the phonologists.

Briefly describe how these kinds of sentences are generated by our grammar.

1.  If our grammar does not yet generate sentences like (4)-(6) below, propose
a minimal change that will allow such sentences to be generated (discuss any
complications):

(4)  Harvey wants his wife to own a Porsche.

(5)  Harvey expects his sons to be admired by women.

(6)  Harvey likes for his monkey to wash him.


2.   Now look at these:

(7)  Harvey wants to sell his Porsche.

(8)  Harvey expects to be admired by women.

(9)  Harvey likes to wash himself.

What is 'to' in these sentences?

How many Theta-roles does 'want' assign?  In (7), what are they?
How many Theta-roles does 'sell' assign?  In (7), what are they?

Considering carefully what the sentences mean, propose an explicit
analysis, i.e. an amendment of the grammar so that they will be generated.
Example (8) gives you a very big hint that it can't just be VP -> V TP.


3.  Can you account for the badness of (10)?

(10) *There expects to be beer at the party.

Can you account for the badness of (11)?

(11) *Tabs expect to be kept on Betty.

Can you explain why (12) and (13) don't mean the same thing?

(12)  Harvey expects to be admired by women.

(13)  Women expect to admire Harvey.