Dimensions of variation in Old English modals

The chapter investigates aspects of variation in Old English modals with respect to functional status, modal base, modal force, and event realization under the modals in the actual world. The main goal is to view—in tandem, rather than in isolation—aspects of variation that are of interest at the syntax–semantics interface. The chapter focuses on three modals, the cognates of ‘can,’ ‘may,’ and ‘must,’ which show the full range of variation available in the categories investigated. The role of circumstantial modality in the diachronic development is underlined. It is furthermore argued that the modals of the period occupy a structural position in the aspectual domain. Evidence for functional status includes ellipsis, topicalization, and the complementary distribution with the aspectual prefix ge-.