Bert Vaux and Ariwan Addy Suhairi, Cambridge University

In this article we outline the harmony system of the Goris dialect as described by Margaryan 1975, which illustrates many of the characteristic features of Armenian harmony systems. Because these facts are largely unavailable to those who cannot read Armenian, we focus on the empirical patterns, paying particular attention to phenomena of theoretical interest. Where possible we employ theory-neutral terminology and highlight exceptional behaviors. Goris harmony displays a number of interesting features. We find intricate variation in the patterning of neutral vowels, e.g. variability in transparency and opacity. Weak vowels exhibit a distinct locally optional bidirectional harmony pattern, with [round] harmony parasitic on [back] harmony. Furthermore, we find complex ordering interactions between vowel harmony and processes such as Vowel Reduction and Epenthesis.

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