Corpus-based analysis of the definite article with nomina unica in Classical Greek
Abstract
This study examines the functional rules governing the use of the definite article with unique nouns (e.g., “sun”, “moon”, etc.) in Classical Greek (5th-4th centuries B.C.). Traditionally, the use of the definite article with unique nouns has been considered optional, with the same noun appearing with or without the definite article in similar contexts. Previous research has often attributed this phenomenon to stylistic or authorial preference. This study attempts to provide a more systematic explanation through both qualitative and quantitative analyses. Using a corpus of 845.097 tokens and 328 nominal occurrences, and applying a logistic regression model, the research identifies factors that influence the use of the definite article. The results show that in the classical period the definite article is still expanding in contexts of logical definiteness (with unique nouns, proper nouns, abstract nouns and generic nouns). Significant correlations are found between the presence of the definite article and factors such as agency, coordination, direct anaphora, literary genre, and idiomatic expressions. This research enhances our understanding of the use of the definite article in Classical Greek and contributes to broader typological studies of the development and functions of the definite article.
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References
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