The rhythmic alternative to “trapping” in Latin

Abstract

Conventionally, Latin accent is viewed within the context of versification where syllabic quantity plays a crucial role. It is the claim of this paper that the Penultimate Stress Rule, based on syllabic quantity, inappropriately neglects a Rhythmic determination of stress. Stress is assigned, rather, by default in the lexicon by the classic trimoraic trochee. When right-branching, this basic rhythmic constituent sets the environment for leftward stress retraction in Latin. This shift in stress in turn brings trochees in line for the essential environment for syncope in Latin and Romance.

Keywords

• Syllabic quantity
• Stress
• Syncope
• Romance languages