Metrical evidence for the evolution of English syntax

Kuhn (1933) proposed that the evolution of Germanic syntax began with a need to restore acceptable sentence rhythm after shift fixed initial stress. found support for his hypothesis in ‘laws’ word placement applied alliterative poetry but not prose. assumed laws were syntactic rules Proto-Germanic maintained by conservative poets. Here I argue Kuhn's Laws poetic meter obscured basic order. Adopting universalist approach Russom (2017), integrate metrical constraints observed Sievers (1893) and explore interaction between syntax. When there are no adverse consequences, subject-object-verb order is employed remarkable consistency Beowulf , our most valuable source evidence. My analysis receives independent from Smith (1971), study earliest texts focuses primarily on