English Translation Studies: Chinese Literary Works

Abstract

This paper examines the two most prevalent strategies employed in the English translation of Chinese literary works. First, the effectiveness of literal translation is examined, with a focus on how well it renders legal documents, historical accounts, textbooks, and religious texts. Since accuracy and faithfulness to the source text are crucial in these kinds of works, the use of literal translation in these situations is justified. Second, it is examined that when the cultural content and context of the source text need to be successfully communicated, free or idiomatic translation may be an essential tactic. When translating literary works, where imagination is crucial, this method is invaluable.Furthermore, this study explores the cross-cultural difficulties that arise when translating between Chinese and English, paying particular attention to idioms, which frequently present serious translation challenges. The study also investigates the translation of seminal works such as Water Margin, Journey to the West, and others, alongside Botev’s Translation, to illustrate how adept translation can reconcile the linguistic and cultural differences between the source and target texts. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into translation processes is examined, along with the associated possibilities and challenges. By examining these translation strategies and their applications, this study aims to contribute to the field of translation studies and enhance the appreciation and understanding of Chinese literary works in English-speaking contexts.