[*] 371. Theory of the subjunctive. In certain spheres of early Greek, the subjunctive appears as a future with the negative of denial, “οὐ”. Hence the theory that the subjunctive was originally a simple future. But it is easier to make the futural subjunctive a deadened imperative than it is to get the imperative notion out of a simple future of prediction. The fact that “μή” is the native negative of the subjunctive (injunctive) seems decisive. Compare the larger use of shall in Early English. See Mätzner, II, p. 87.
Syntax of Classical Greek from Homer to Demosthenes. Basil L. Gildersleeve. New York. American Book Company. 1900.
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