12.2 Key Theories and Approaches to Literary Translation

Literary translation bridges cultures, connecting readers to diverse worlds through words. Theoretical approaches like linguistic, functionalist, and postcolonial theories shape how translators tackle texts. These frameworks guide decisions on equivalence, cultural adaptation, and power dynamics in translation.

Translators navigate complex choices between domestication and foreignization, balancing cultural preservation with accessibility. Their role as cultural mediators involves ethical considerations, linguistic expertise, and awareness of their own influence on the final translated work.

Theoretical Foundations of Literary Translation

Theoretical approaches to literary translation

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• Linguistic approach emphasizes formal equivalence prioritizing source text structure and meaning (word-for-word translation)
• Functionalist approach focuses on target text purpose considering cultural and contextual factors (skopos theory)
• Descriptive Translation Studies (DTS) analyzes existing translations empirically examining norms and conventions in practice
• Postcolonial translation theory explores power dynamics in translation addressing cultural appropriation and representation (Orientalism)
• Feminist translation theory examines gender issues in translation highlighting visibility of women translators and authors (écriture féminine)

Concept of equivalence in translation

• Dynamic equivalence focuses on equivalent effect on target audience adapting cultural references (Bible translations)
• Formal equivalence preserves source text form and content aiming for word-for-word translation when possible (legal documents)
• Semantic equivalence emphasizes meaning over form considering connotations and context (poetry translation)
• Pragmatic equivalence focuses on intended effect of the text adapting speech acts and implicatures (advertising slogans)
• Skopos theory prioritizes purpose of target text adapting translation strategies to meet intended function (user manuals)

Translation Strategies and Considerations

Domestication vs foreignization in translation

• Domestication adapts text to target culture norms increasing readability and accessibility but risks cultural erasure (Harry Potter translations)
• Foreignization preserves source culture elements promoting cross-cultural understanding but may create distance for target readers (Haruki Murakami's works)
• Hybrid approaches combine domestication and foreignization strategies balancing cultural preservation and accessibility (graphic novels)
• Ethical considerations involve power dynamics between source and target cultures and representation of minority voices (postcolonial literature)

Translator's influence on translation choices

• Translator's visibility affects paratextual elements shaping reader's perception of the work (prefaces, footnotes)
• Cultural mediator role bridges gaps between source and target cultures negotiating cultural differences and sensitivities (translating idioms)
• Ideological influences shape translation choices through conscious and unconscious biases in interpretation (political texts)
• Translator's linguistic background impacts translation through knowledge of source and target language nuances (bilingual translators)
• Ethical responsibility balances fidelity to source text and target audience needs requiring transparency about translation choices (controversial content)