Translation as rewriting is a concept articulated by André Lefevere, a prominent figure in the field of translation studies. Lefevere posits that translation is not merely a straightforward transfer of text from one language to another but a complex process of rewriting, deeply influenced by the cultural and ideological contexts within which it occurs. This approach underscores the interpretative nature of translation, suggesting that translators act as cultural mediators who shape and transform texts to align with the expectations, norms, and values of the target culture.
Lefevere’s theory of translation as rewriting encompasses several dimensions. First, it highlights the power dynamics involved in translation. Translators, consciously or unconsciously, make choices that reflect broader societal structures and power relations. These choices can either reinforce or challenge the dominant ideologies of their time. For instance, during the Victorian era, translations of classical texts often emphasized moral and didactic aspects, aligning with the prevailing conservative values of the period. This selective emphasis served to legitimize the dominant ideology and maintain social order.
Another critical aspect of Lefevere’s theory is the role of patronage in shaping translations. Patronage refers to the influence exerted by individuals or institutions that commission or support translations. Patrons can include publishers, political entities, or cultural organizations, and their interests significantly affect the translation process. For example, Soviet translations of Western literature were often manipulated to conform to socialist realism, ensuring that the translated works propagated the ideals of the Soviet state. Translators had to navigate the demands of their patrons while attempting to remain faithful to the source text, leading to a complex interplay of fidelity and adaptation.
Moreover, Lefevere emphasizes the importance of poetics, the literary and aesthetic conventions of a given time and place, in the process of translation. Translators must consider the dominant literary forms and stylistic preferences of the target culture. This is evident in the translation of poetry, where maintaining the original meter, rhyme, and imagery can be challenging. For instance, translating Shakespeare’s sonnets into modern English or another language involves not only linguistic but also cultural and poetic considerations. The translator must balance the preservation of Shakespeare’s stylistic nuances with making the text accessible and resonant for contemporary readers.
To illustrate Lefevere’s concept of translation as rewriting, we can consider various historical and contemporary examples. One notable case is the translation of the Bible. Over centuries, the Bible has been translated into numerous languages, each version reflecting the theological, political, and cultural contexts of its time. The King James Version (1611), for example, was commissioned by King James I of England and aimed to produce an authoritative and standardized English Bible. The translators’ choices were influenced by the religious and political milieu of early 17th-century England, resulting in a text that has had a profound impact on English literature and culture.
A contemporary example can be found in the translation of Haruki Murakami’s works into English. Murakami, a Japanese novelist, writes in a style that blends Western and Japanese literary traditions. Translators like Jay Rubin and Philip Gabriel not only translate Murakami’s words but also adapt his narratives to resonate with Western readers. This involves making choices about cultural references, idiomatic expressions, and narrative pacing. Rubin and Gabriel’s translations have contributed to Murakami’s global popularity, illustrating how translation as rewriting can bridge cultural divides and introduce new audiences to diverse literary voices.
In conclusion, André Lefevere’s theory of translation as rewriting provides a nuanced understanding of the translation process, emphasizing the translator’s role as an active agent in shaping texts. By acknowledging the influence of cultural, ideological, and aesthetic factors, this approach reveals the transformative power of translation. Translators do not merely reproduce texts; they rewrite them, creating new works that resonate within their specific cultural and historical contexts. This perspective enriches our appreciation of translation as both an art and a craft, highlighting its significance in cross-cultural communication and the transmission of ideas.
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