Numerous publications and conference contributions in the last ten years have revealed a growing interest in the theory of grammaticalization. People have worked on several topics reaching from theoretical investigations on its status with respect to various theories of grammar up to its practical application to linguistic phenomena in many languages of the world. This has led, on the one hand, to new insights and a deeper understanding, it has also revealed, however, new questions that call for an answer and require further research. The aim of this symposium is to bring together scholars who are working in this area to present their findings and discuss such topics as e.g. whether there are two different types of grammaticalization, one on the propositional level and another one on the discourse level, whether there are convincing examples of the reversability of grammaticalization, what kind of relationship holds between grammaticalization and lexicalization, or which internal and external factors can accelerate or retard grammaticalization. Papers are invited on all aspects related to grammaticalization in its synchronic or diachronic perspective, with respect to theoretical reflections or practical findings.
Studies based on linguistic phenomena in English are particularly welcome.
There will be a conference dinner, a guided tour through the city of Potsdam including a visit of one of its famous castles, a visit of the Potsdam Film Studios or a boat tour on the Havel. Details about the social programme will be given in the 2nd circular. Accomodation will be in hotels in town at conference rates. A limited number of moderately priced rooms will be available in the guest house of the University. You will have to book the rooms on your own, mentioning your participation in the symposium.