Contains cutting edge theoretical papers by top authors in the field Authors conduct original field work and bring new data to light

This book contains cutting edge theoretical papers by top authors in the field, who also conduct original field work and bring new data to light. It contains articles that apply the most recent theoretical tools to the area of ergativity, and explore issues that emerge. The articles are written by linguists with expertise in bringing original data to bear on complex theoretical issues.

The overall theme of the volume is the formal expression of the range and limits of ergativity. The main sections are on the nature of ergative and absolutive case, the antipassive, split ergativity, and ergativity in languages not generally considered to be ergative. Languages investigated are Basque, Chukchi, Georgian, Halkomelem Salish, Hindi, Inuktitut, Kirundi, Malagasy, Niuean, Nuumiipuutímt, Russian, Tongan, and Warlpiri.