A Grammar of Upper Tanana, Volume 2: Semantics, Syntax, Discourse

A Grammar of Upper Tanana, Volume 2 is a descriptive grammar of the Upper Tanana language, spoken by fifty people in limited parts of Alaska's eastern interior and Canada's Yukon Territory. It is part of a comprehensive two-volume text that aims to render a written record of the endangered language. Upper Tanana is part of the Dene (Athabascan) language group and embodies elements of both the Alaskan and Canadian subgroups of Northern Dene. It is the first comprehensive grammatical description of any of the Alaskan Dene languages. The grammar is written in a basic linguistic theory framework to make it accessible to a wide range of readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 648 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2023
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

A Grammar of Upper Tanana, Volume 2, is a significant contribution to the preservation and documentation of the endangered Upper Tanana language. This comprehensive two-volume text serves as a descriptive grammar of the Upper Tanana language, providing a written record of this unique language. Currently, approximately fifty individuals speak Upper Tanana fluently in limited regions of Alaska's eastern interior and Canada's Yukon Territory. Upper Tanana belongs to the Dene (Athabascan) language group, which encompasses both the Alaskan and Canadian subgroups of Northern Dene. This grammar represents the first comprehensive grammatical description of any Alaskan Dene language, making it a valuable resource for scholars, linguists, and language enthusiasts alike.

The grammar is written in a clear and accessible manner, utilizing basic linguistic theory to make it accessible to a diverse audience. It includes detailed explanations of the language's phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics, making it an invaluable resource for language students and researchers. The grammar is organized into chapters, each covering different aspects of the language. It begins with an introduction to the Upper Tanana language and its historical background, followed by chapters on phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. Each chapter includes examples and exercises to help readers practice and apply the grammar rules.

One of the notable features of this grammar is its emphasis on the preservation and documentation of the Upper Tanana language. The authors recognize the importance of preserving this language and have taken steps to ensure that it is accurately represented in the grammar. They have consulted with native speakers of Upper Tanana to ensure that the grammar is accurate and reflects the language as it is spoken today. Additionally, the grammar includes a comprehensive bibliography and an index, making it easier for readers to locate relevant research and resources.

In conclusion, A Grammar of Upper Tanana, Volume 2, is a groundbreaking work that contributes significantly to the field of linguistics. It provides a comprehensive and detailed description of the Upper Tanana language, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. The grammar's emphasis on preservation and documentation ensures that this unique language will be preserved for future generations. This work is a valuable resource for scholars, linguists, language enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning more about the rich linguistic heritage of Alaska and Canada.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496231437