"Split Nominal Constructions in Italian"

In this paper interface evidence is provided for an analysis of Split Nominal constructions which excludes extraction of the dislocated phrase from the NP containing the Focus. Based on formal and semantic considerations, it is argued that Split Nominals imply a kind-construction implemented by the dislocated element, which is merged as a G-Topic in the left periphery of the DP containing the Focus. Crucially, the latter is not a modifier, but a predicate within the SC selected by the relevant DP, which has a pro in subject position. Following recent proposals, it is then argued that the subject pro in the SC is interpreted through an Agree relation with the local (possibly silent) AS-Topic, representing a high copy of the G-Topic in the D-domain. This analysis is supported by intonational evidence, showing that the dislocated constituent can be overtly realized as any type of Topic, depending on the context; when it constitutes an overt AS- or C-Topic in the C-domain, the DP-internal G-Topic is a silent low copy. This analysis provides a novel approach to Split Nominal constructions, which can be profitably applied in future analyses on Split constructions in different languages