STUDIES ON THE YI-DATIVE CONSTRUCTIONS IN OLD CHINESE

Abstract

This paper argues against the plausible view that the double-object construction “VNRNT” and the two yi-dative constructions viz. “VNRyiNT”“yiNTVNR” are interchangeable in Archaic Chinese by offering some observations of the yi-dative constructions in Zuozhuan and Shiji to show that there are some differences among the three constructions, and demonstrates the respective using conditions of “VNRyiNT” “yiNTVNR” “yiVNR”. Moreover, this paper also offers some observations of the difference between the yi-dative constructions in Pre-Qin period and in Western Han Dynasty. Chapter 1 is an introduction of the relevant symbols, terms, language material, the core question this paper dealing with,and of the research method in this study. In addition, there will be a literature review of related issues in this chapter. In Chapter 2, The using conditions of “VNRyiNT” will be introduced after introducing verbs applying to the yi-dative constructions. By observing the semantic features of these verbs, which verbs are more likely to appear in “VNRyiNT” and which are not will be clarified. Furthermore, the similarity and the differences between the double-object construction “VNRNT” and yi-dative construction “VNRyiNT” will be discussed in Chapter 2. In Chapter 3, The using conditions of “yiNTVNR” and “yiVNR” will be observed in a different method by showing the referentiality of theme NT rather than the semantic features of these verbs. Moreover, the using conditions of “VNRNT” “yiNTVNR” “VNRyiNT” and their typical usage and differences will be summarized in this chapter. The changes of yi-dative constructions in Western Han Dynasty (mainly in Shiji) will be the main topic of Chapter 4. The possible influence of these changes on the development of Chinese will also be involved in this Chapter.