Syntactic Variation in Insular Scandinavian

This book presents the latest research on the syntax of the “Insular Scandinavian” languages (Faroese and Icelandic), with contributions from thirteen experts, and a significant introductory chapter by the four editors. The topics covered include some that have figured extensively in recent literature on Scandinavian syntax and its implications for syntactic theory: case, agreement, embedded clause word order, stylistic fronting, and the nature of “expletive” constructions. The volume is conceived around the topic of variation, both within and between the two languages studied—as well as more generally—and stands out for the wealth of new empirical detail from both Faroese and Icelandic, relating to each of the topics and theoretical issues discussed. Each chapter is written in a way to make it accessible to a wide audience within linguistics; the book will be essential reading for students and researchers with an interest in the syntax of the Germanic languages.

Helge Sandøy, Universitet i Bergen, in Nowele 72:1:
[T]his original and systematic presentation of Icelandic and Faroese synchronic variation will be inspiring to researchers of language history. The articles demonstrate thorough work and prolific collaboration among the involved authors. The authors have provided new and valuable insights into case syntax, agreement controllers, and movements that were not available two decades ago.