Choice of classifier handshape in Catalan Sign Language: A corpus study

Abstract

Classifier predicates are sign language modality specific constructions that are widely spread in all attested sign languages. Extended research has been devoted to the study of these structures, but many aspects related to their nature remain unclear. This article examines the factors that influence the choice of handshape in classifier predicates referring to anthropomorphic entities in Catalan Sign Language (LSC). We present the results of a corpus study investigating the choice between the 1- and the 2-handshape. Our findings indicate that the choice between these two handshapes is affected by the discourse status of the referent, whether the event encodes manner of motion and whether the action is (un)controlled by the moving referent. Moreover, our study shows that, in LSC, handshapes that are articulatory more complex (e.g. the 2-handshape with respect to the 1-handshape) are used to convey more detailed information about the events and the discourse referents. This accounts for the use of the 2-handshape when manner of motion, in addition to path, is expressed, when referents are maintained in the discourse and when controlled actions expressing the controlled movement of the body and the legs are conveyed.