Syntax has received major attention in recent linguistic study, with many efforts at formalization. Publications have taken data largely from earlier treatments characterized as traditional. In spite of claims for theoretical advances, no treatments of syntax have been produced to replace the earlier, supposedly outmoded treatments. Rather, theoretical claims, such as those advanced on the advantages of a generative approach and formah'sm, have been dismissed by leading figures in the field. More recent grammars, like Mitchell's for Old English and Engel's for modern German, generally observe the traditional approach. Among problems, those for older periods lack the historical approach, as of expression for reflexivization. Investigations into these and other syntactic categories are needed. Further, outstanding works of the past, such as those by Delbruck, should be made available. In addition, specific handbooks, as on Old High German syntax, should be undertaken; in preparation, some texts of the time require reediting.