Translation studies examines translation systematically as a theory, a set of practices, and a field of research. This lesson introduces the discipline, its interdisciplinary character, and the historical developments that helped establish it.
Translation studies is the academic interdiscipline concerned with the systematic study of the theory, description, and application of translation, interpreting, and localization. It is an interdiscipline because it draws on methods and ideas from other fields rather than relying on one academic tradition alone.
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Translation studies
An academic interdiscipline that systematically studies translation, interpreting, and localization.
Functional equivalence
A relationship in which a translation achieves similar function even when its form changes.
Translation ethics
Reflection on responsibilities involved in representing another text, author, or culture.
Localization
Adapting technical content for a particular locale, including its language variety and cultural parameters.
Symbolic capital
Recognition, authority, or prestige that can shape actors’ positions and influence cultural circulation.
Quiz questions
In polysystem theory, how may translated literature relate to the receiving literary system?Answer: It may occupy a central or peripheral position within that system.
What principle guides decisions in Skopos theory?Answer: The intended purpose of the translation.
Why are audiovisual translation texts often called polysemiotic?Answer: They convey meaning through multiple channels, such as words, sound, and images.
What does internationalization do in preparation for localization?Answer: It avoids or removes culture-specific features to make adaptation to multiple locales easier.
What does descriptive translation studies seek to establish?Answer: An empirical account of how translations work in cultural and literary settings.