The Theoretical Framework For The Translation English Language Essay

The Theoretical Framework For The supplanting English Language searchThe commentary will be divided into trinity sections. The first section will introduce the author schoolbookbook, open the theoretical framework for the displacement, define the commentary brief and carry out a comparison of the operations of pedigree and mug school school textbooks. The next section will focus on defining and analyzing the strategies implemented in the reading by providing causas from deep down the exposition. The final section will be a conclusion of the preceding sections.Source textual matterThe source text is an denomination titled Xin, Da, Ya On Yan Fus Translation Theories and was written in Chinese by professor Wong Wang-Chi of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. The article was first published in the Journal of Translation Studies by the department of edition at the Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1997. Later it was published collection of works by author Wong in a contain titled a Study of 20th Century Chinese Translation studiesRe-interpretation of xin, da and ya, by Shanghai Orient Press in 1999. The article contri entirelyes to the free burning academic debate among Chinese translation scholars on Yan Fus translation possibility xin, da and ya. Wong attempts to provide cle ber interpretation of Yan Fus translation opening which had previously received such(prenominal) criticism claiming that it was flawed, inappropriate and misrepresentory. Due to the nature of text, it inevitably contains a large amount of theory-based content. The article was written with regard to Yan Fus translation infix of Tian Yan Lun, a translation of Huxleys Evolution and Ethics (1893). In this preface Yan Fu introduced his translation theory and it is in that respectfore for this reason that Wongs piece contains large number quotations from Yan Fus preface a preface which was written in holy Chinese prose in 1898, five years after the passe-partou t was released. The fact that Yan Fus original translation was written in guileless Chinese prose and obviously was published in the 19th century means that the way it is interpreted since then has been in constant debate. The combination of theory with cardinal(prenominal) classical music Chinese prose and modern Chinese means the task of translation was Byzantine.The usance of the original is to provide Chinese translation and literature fields with a fresh outlook on Yan Fus translation theory in response to previous criticism. It aims to falsify the critical way in which many scholars have looked upon this theory by wholeowing the ref to see Yan Fus theory in a different light. Deep down Wongs motives are bringly to defend Yan Fu and put right those previously who have misunderstood Yan Fus theory and then gone on to mis fiddle Yan Fu in the field of translation studies. The aspire audience of the source text are Wongs fellow translation studies scholars and those st udents who are studying translation studies at least at undergraduate level. This is due to the heavy reliance on examples in classical Chinese prose passim the text and the style of the authors writing. The text possesses a corrective and educative nature.Theoretical FrameworkA Brief BackgroundA Functionalist blastThe theoretical framework chosen for this translation is a functionalist approach. The functionalist approach was first suggested by Kathrina Reiss in 1971 (200092), it developed further in the 1970s and 80s in Germany and was focal to the shift from predominantly linguistic and rather formal translation theories to a more functionally and socio ethnicly orientated concept of translation (Schaffner 1998235). It was a shift that Gentzler depict as one of the two most important theoretical developments in translation studies over the past two decades (200170). This aproach nonably has been developed by a number of scholars in german language countries, including Kathri na Reiss, Hans Vermeer, Mary Snell-Hornby, Christiane Nord and Justa Holz-Manttari (200169). The functionalist approach not unaccompanied allows for greater emphasis to be placed on the exactly whentocks text, but also provides a framework to evaluate better the role of the translator, something that previous theories failed to accommodate.The functionalist approach consists of a number of fundamental principlesAll strategies are de terminalined by the function of the translation.The function is defined by the commissioner through the translation brief.The function of the translation need not be identical to that of the original.A translation that hits its intend purpose is to be declared as functional.(cf. Nord 2006)Functionalist scholars believe that translation should always strive to achieve optimal solutions within actual conditions (Gentzler 200170-71). However, importantly functionalist advocates admit on that point is no such thing as a perfect translation. Controversi ally the functionalist approach can be criticized as being too vague and not being extensive enough, Despite the plausible flaws in the approach, it is still recognized for decisively brought about the breaking of the two thousand year old image of theory resolving around the faithful vs. free axis (Gentzler 200171). The framework for this translation will focus on Reiss and Vermeers Skopos theory (1984), a theory that has been launch within the parameters of the functionalist approach.Skopos theoryThe was Skopos theory was established by Reiss and Vermeer in 1984. The theory is based around the skopos or the function, purpose or aim of a translation (Vermeer 1989221). The main components of the theory are the overall aim (skopos), the purpose set in devote to achieve the aim, the intention behind the aim and the eventual function of the send language text in scathe of its readership. This means that any form of translation strategy implemented will be determined these four co mponents of the skopos theory which in turn from the purpose that the translation will later go on to serve. Functionalists advocate that translation like any other exertion in that behavior is determined by its intent, in other words, the end justifies the means (Nord 199729). The skopos theory provides the translator with the means to justify their decision making. According to Vermeer, either text has a given goal, function or intention and that any text can adopt a different function when applied in different circumstances with a different audience (1989227). Therefore the translation is no longer classified as loyal or disloyal, but thrifty in terms of how consistent translation is in relation to the purpose and intention of the target text, which are defined from the viewpoint of the receiver.An important aspect of the skopos theory is that the source and target texts must be viewed separately to allow the theory to function. Reiss and Vermeer state that e actually text is an offer of breeding and indicating that the source and target text a two separate entities (House 199716). The translator is simply offering certain information from the source text in accordance with the skopos specified by the commissioner (Reiss and Vermeer 199176) By distinguishing clearly between the source and target texts it en equal to(p)s the a kind of translation to be carried out that does not place the source text at its realm. In other words, the text can take on a new function which can be viewed as an extension of the original, even though it king involve changing the function altogether, as Nord states written texts can exist outside their original situation (1991/20058). This means again means that the function target text it not restricted by the original, but most importantly is pragmatically defined by the purpose of the intercultural transfer (1991/200511).One of the most hearty aspects the Skopos theory is its approach to equivalence and adequacy. According to Reiss and Vermeer, equivalence can defined as an identical communicative function shared across both source and target texts (House 199712) and adequacy can be defined as being the relationship between the source and translation where no functional match is obtained and the skopos of the translation has been attended to (199712). At the same time, the skopos remains more important than any form of equivalence. In translating between Chinese and English, two contrasting subtletys, it is pivotal that we shape out the fundamental principle that just in the same way that source text is bound to or embedded within the source culture, the target text should also be orientated towards the target culture (Vermeer 1989222-223).Following on from the initial establishment of the skopos theory by Reiss and Vermeer, Chrisiane Nord also contributes to the functionalist approach. Nord modifies the previous work on skopos theory by attempting to re counterweight the excessively target text o rientated skopos theory, claiming the priority of the target text purpose does not mean that the source text is irrelevant, as it sometimes assumed (199762). Moreover, she points out that the source text provides the offer of information that forms the starting point for the offer of information formulated in the target text (199762). Nord extends on the skopos theory by providing a form of source text analysis that Reiss and Vermeer had failed to cover, which in turn desexs for a more comprehensive theory, a theory which is utilize as a framework for this translation.It is also important to recognize as Nord concludes that optimum circumstances for carrying out translation is when intention and function would be analogous or even identical (199728). In the case of this translation the intentions certainly are analogous, which signifies this theory is appropriate for this translation.Other Relevant ApproachesText TypologyThis model of translation was based on Bulhers typology. Re iss outlined her three text types informative, expressive and operative. This model of translation is focuses on the functional relationship between source and target texts. It fundamentally involves the categorization of texts into either on of the three categories mentioned above(Reiss 1977), then dependent on which category the text falls under determines the translation strategies implemented by the translator.Translational ActionThis theory was introduced by Hola-Manttari, who defines translation as a complex action designed to achieve a particular process (Nord 199712-13). Hola-Manttari focuses on specific aspects of the translation process such as the translator, the receiver of the message, time, place and medium. This approach has been praised by Schaffer, who recognizes the versatility in accommodating all types of translation (19975). The theory considers highly the needs of the target text receiver. Although similar to the skopos theory it also bears the wrath of Nords c riticism for neglecting the source text (199128).Nords Model of Text AnalysisNords model of text analysis consists of two main aspects extratextual factors and intratextual factors. It gives a framework that allows both the source and potential difference target text to be analyzed. Nord divides translation problems into four categories pragmatic, cultural, linguistic and text specific (1991158-160).Hypothetical Translation BriefThe translation brief is very influential in any translation, it is even more important in the functionalist approach. It gives both explicit and implicit information with regard to the intention, purpose and audience. It defines the conditions under which the translation is practiced. It is these conditions that influence the way in which the translator behaves. Munday states that it allows the translator to prioritize what information to take in the target text and to see where the source text and the target text may diverge (200182).This translation ha s been commissioned by Renditions, the leading internationalist journal of Chinese literature in English language. Based in Hong Kong, Renditions has striven to provide a unique yet rich variety of both classical and contemporary Chinese literature to the western world. It will be made commercially available in topical edition based on Chinese translation theory. The translation aims to present the latest standpoint on one of the most influential Chinese translation theories in translation studies history. It will bring a more equaliserd, comprehensive understanding of Yan Fus translation theory among western translation scholars and students of translation. The translation should ensure that those in the West are more sensible to his theory.Source and manoeuvre Text FunctionIn order to effectively identify the strategies necessary to carry out the translation we must first establish the function of both the source and target texts. As it has been stated in the preceding paragra ph the function of the source text is to outline the authors interpretation of Yan Fus translation theory correcting those previous misunderstandings and at the same time defend Yan Fu. Therefore, in certain aspects the text is fullfilling an informative function in that it is sharing the view of Professor Wong Kwok-Pung, but furthermore the text has a operational function in that it is arguing for the defense of Yan Fus translation theory and is attempting to convince its audience that Yan Fu has been misrepresented. It has then bring apparent that he source text possesses a combination of two functions. It is important to point out that the audience for this text is very niche as it is an scholarly and theoretical text which contains classical Chinese prose even those with a university education will not necessarily be able to comprehend.With regard to the function of the target text, the function is similar to that of the source text. The key going is that it takes on more of a n educative function. It intends to educate western scholars of translation through increasing their predisposition to the on going Yan Fu debate among Chinese translation scholars. Consequently, the target text is content focused, therefore the offer of information must be accurate in relation to the offer of information in the source text (Nord 80). In order to ensure that the translator is able to effectively transfer this information accurately, it is recommended that a literal translation strategy is used providing it can reach a level of born(p)ness that guarantees clarity and the presentation of the ideas and understandings of a fairly complex translation theory. This important as presently there exists a diversity among the understandings of the main concepts that form the basis of the theory. At this moment there is a key difference between the source and target texts the source text audience is limited by both style of writing (classical Chinese) and the actual contents. On the other hand, the target will be restricted notwithstanding by its content and not by the writing style as it will be mainly champaign English. Therefore it audience will be extended by a more reader friendly text. The target text is aiming to turn a complex source text into a target text that is much clearerStrategies UsedI n this section the strategies used by the translator will be discussed. A functionalist approach, in particular the skopos theory will determine these strategies which applied in this translation. It has also been recognized that the text is both informative and operational. Therefore, a balance must be found between being highly content focused in which no loss of information can be accepted, but also ensure the function of text is achieved, the translator must render the text in so that it is readable and conforms to the target text language conventions.words ResearchDictionaries, glossaries and parallel texts provide a resource that allows vital termi nology research. Dictionaries are a tool used by translators across the world. In this translation a number of dictionaries have been referenced bilingual and monolingual both modern and classic Chinese.Bilingual dictionaries provide a comprehensive range of terms including examples in a number of contexts. Despite that, there are instances with certain terminology when the bilingual dictionary does not suffice. A monolingual dictionary is used in instances when the incompleteness and inconsistency of the bilingual dictionary mean that terminology cannot be referenced. A specialized ancient chinese dictionary was required in this translation as the source text contains substantial amounts of classical Chinese prose.Dictionaries usedDue to the difficulty in dealing with sections of classical Chinese prose within the source text, It was un reduceable that the translator depend on the assistance of a specialists outside of the field of translation. Nord (1991158-160) describes this as being a text-specific problem, which is one of the four translation problems, as the source was written by a specialist. Although the fact that area of specialization in the source text is translation, but the fact that it is a skilful text (1991158-160) does still prove to be a problem. In terms of this translation, I sought the cooperation of a post graduate student from the University of Warwick who have an superior noesis of classical Chinese prose. He was able to help with difficulties in terminology and provide an evaluated opinion on the translated version of certain terms. perspectivelessnessOmission is a strategy that is apply in instances when information is redundant and is non-beneficial to the function of the translation or the target reader. All forms of information must be able to make sense in the culture in which they exist. For example, the footnotes in the source text give reference to several Chinese authors and their work, all of which is in Chinese. I do not believe that supplying a translated version of these footnotes will provide any real support to the purpose of the text. Therefore, I have extractted all four of the footnotes which were present in the original. It is appreciated that some people believe the footnotes should be preserved in the translation and further explanatory information should ensue them. Despite this the decision to omit was made as the information was simply not significant enough to the target reader.AdditionIt is natural that the background knowledge of the source text audience and the target text audience may differ. This means that the translator at times must employ strategies to either omit redundant or irrelevant information and also provide more information to supplement the the text in order to counteract the in balance in background knowledge, and in turn enable the target text reader to comprehend.There are a number instances in which historic and culture points are referred to within the so urce text. These points are crucial in the explanation of Wongs standpoint and the understanding of Yan Fus theory.By providing supplementary information regarding those theoretical terms, historical and cultural references in the translation it ensures the English readers are able to understand. In particular with the terms xin, da and ya which are used throughout the text. It is very important to confer supplementary explanations. If these items are not made clear in the initial stages of the translation then they will lead to the reader being distracted which is noisome to the development of the text.Literal translationLiteral translation involves following closely the structure, form and lexical meanings of the source text. It is based converting text constructions into their target text equivalents. By translating each lexical word means they are often out of context in target text form. It allows for accuracy in the transfer of information that explains why many people have misunderstood Yan Fus ideas. The main issue with literal translation is that those implicit and contextual meanings are neglected. This could potentially be damage to the effective transfer of information. lessonSource Text- come in TextDue to the fact that Yan Fu himself did neither define nor explain in detail these threecharacters immediately after proclaiming them, as a result it led to much subjective speculation and confusion.In the example above a literal translation strategy has been implemented. The original forms and meanings have been preserved, or at least to some extent. In the first example, due to the fact that there is an equivalent available in the target text means the translation is straightforward. However, in the second example, to simply render the text in accordance with the source text would result in unnaturalness. As a result the it has been altered to conform with the target text norms.As there is an evident inter-lingual difference between Chinese and En glish, there are instances in which it is not possible to translate literary. An attempt at literal translation will result in unnaturalness in the target language text. In my translation a number of pragmatic strategies have been employed, all of which promote naturalness and readability in the target text. Admittedly, accuracy may be sacrificed in order to ensure the target text audience are able understand and fully engage with the target text. There are a a few(prenominal) examples belowExample 1.01 Source Text Literal Translation Carving up techniqueTarget Text MisrepresentationPotential Alternative ingeminate of context garble his statementExample 1.02 Source Text GAPLiteral Translation EliminateTarget Text Clear upIn the two examples above illustrates a certain loss in meaning. The source text expresses more strongly in a way that becomes unnatural in the target text. In the target text example 1.01 it shows a two version of translation. The translator had to decide not to use the potential alternative because to a certain extent it seemed too toned down and neutral to truly represent the source text. The translator opted to use misrepresentation as it is able to represent at least to some extent the strong connotation of the original. It is inevitable that strong connotation in the original is to be sacrificed in order to achieve naturalness in the target text. The next example (1.02) is a connotation similar to the previous example, but it was not possible to find an equivalent that possessed the same strong connotation as in the target text. The translator is left with no choice but sacrifice the connotation for a weaker, more natural target text equivalent. This kind of adaptation guarantees naturalness.Example 1.03 Source Text Literal Translation Following a logical chain of thoughtTarget Text ReasonablyPotential Alternative NaturallyExample 1.04 Source Text Literal Translation climbing a tree to adjudicate a fish.Target Text Fruitless approachP otential Alternative climbing a tree to seek a fish (a fruitless approach)Although the two examples above (1.03 and 1.04) both can be translated literally, however, they seem to be too long-winded. The translation must conform to the norms of the target language. It is important to avoid any unnecessary unnaturalness that may be detrimental to the development of the target text. As the authors intention is to defend Yan Fus theory, it is crucial that messages and meanings are transferred into the target text effectively.Example 1.05 illustrates an example where a target version that strongly represents the meaning of the source is rejected due to its length and unnaturalness.Source TextRejected translationThe use of certain methods specifically in accordance with the subject of the literary piece allows for enhanced cultural musing, faithfully expressing the real ideas and emotions of the originalTarget TextAn authors writing allows for enhanced expression that should sincerely re flect his thoughts and emotionsIn-text referenceAs the name suggests, it is the providing of extra information within the text itself. It is a strategy used to explain a term that is alien to the readership such as Kuomintang (Chinese Nationalist Party) or simply assist them in comprehending the text. In the translation this strategy was not used often as it confuses the reader, especially in theoretical based text.Syntactical ConventionThe syntactic structure of Chinese and English are different. In terms of this translation, this means that alterations to the sequencing elements of the source text so that it reads naturally in the target language. An example of the changes that need to be made is shown belowSource Text-----Literal TransaltionThe fact is that with original texts which contain abstruse contents and are written in the terse and indirect language, to use the lexicon and sentence structure of pre-Han Dynasty proves better in expressing the original texts.Target TextTh e fact is that the lexicon and sentence structures of pre-Han Dynasty prose prove to better express original texts which contain abstruse contents and are written in the terse and allusive language.The underlined part of each example highlights the change in structure. The text must function as an informative or educative and present an argument, in order to achieve this, the above adaptation has been made to emphasize readability.The next example below demonstrates the problems with complex sentence structures. To allow the reader to understand the target text modification is inevitable.Source Text---Literal TranslationNaturally, Yan Fus demands of using lexicon and sentence structure of pre-Han Dynasty prose in carrying out translation, furthermore the belief that it can achieve da, at once it seems unthinkable, but if we look at this problem from a historical point of view then we wouldnt feel that there was any inappropriateness at all.Target TextNaturally, today when we look ba ck on Yan Fus belief of using lexicon and sentence structure of pre-Han Dynasty prose to achieving da, it seems to be unimaginable. However, if we look at this problem from a historical point of view then we wouldnt feel that there was any inappropriateness at all.The lengthy sentence in the example above has not only been divided into two separate units or sentences, but also the order of the units have been rearranged for it to make sense.Elsewhere, in Chinese the subjects are often unexpressed and the target area can also occasionally be omitted. In particular, these instances occur more frequently in classical Chinese. It is left to the reader to determine the subject and object lens in any given sentence which can prove ambiguous. When rendering the text it is important the object or subject is inserted into the translated text to allow the reader to understand. This is shown in example 1.07 where the object is inserted in square brackets to ensure the reader is not confused. The channels that communicate the message of the original should be kept clear and concise.AlterationsThe source does not only contain a number of paragraphs from Yan Fus original translation preface, the author also quotes on a number of occasions throughout his text. This means the task of translation becomes extremely difficult because the context changes slightly. The initial issue is that it is was not possible to translate the sections of classical Chinese literally, furthermore, as it was very important to make clear the original meanings in these sections as Wong bases his essay on them, the translation strategy adopted was loyal to the meanings and had to presented be clear, concise and natural in the target language. It is for this reason that literal translation was not possible. However, the problem arose when these translations had to fit into Wongs main texts that were written in mainly in modern Chinese. Example 1.05 demonstrates that in the original classical Chines e it does contain the word meaning, but it is left out because it is not necessary in the context of the whole passage. As Wong quotes this line in a separate instance the meaning is then required. In this instance the translator must use an in-text reference and not change the structure of the quotation in order to remain consistent. If a translation shows inconsistency then the reader will be confused.Example 1.05Source Text -Translated Passage of Classical Chinese provided that the translation does not contradict of the originalQuotation from the Passage in Main Text provided that the translation does not contradict the meaning of the original)FootnotesFootnotes are used to provide additional information that is necessary to further explain certain terms or concepts in the text. They are usually employed when the supplementary information needed is too long to provide a parenthetical reference. It must be noted that footnotes should be used minimally to avoid distracting the read er in a way which will negatively influence the development of the text. As Baker states, unnecessary addition of information will only lower the readability of the text (199240). This translation uses footnotes to enable the reader to understand the source text. In other words they ensure the reader maintains connected with the text. For example to present an alien term without giving a supplementary explanation to the reader leads them to be unable to maintain their connection with the text. In this text there are instances when footnotes are employed to make the target text clearer in areas in which the author of the source text has failed, example on page XX of the translation the translator uses footnotes to explain the term expression of intention which is one of the main elements of Yan Fus theory.The original author has not made much effort to make the chunks of classical Chinese prose more comprehendible to someone who does not understand this form of ancient Chinese. By do ing this the author expresses that he wishes his text to function only among a very niche audience, I mean Wong could have provided a modern Chinese version of those sections. In the translation, the use of clear, plain English eradicates this potential restriction on its audience. The translated text intends to be accessible to all those who have interest in or understanding of the theoretical content of the original. Therefore, in a way the translation extends the influence of the original.In addition footnotes are used to counteract the lack of shared background knowledge between the source and target audience. The strategy shown below is an example of contextual amplification in which items, which source readers take for granted and that target readers do not understand, are explained.Example 1On Page XX an explanation of the Tong