Three English (Re)translations of the Chinese Historical Novel Three Kingdoms (Sanguo yanyi): An Analysis of Social Context, Paratext and Text

Wang, Juan (2024) Three English (Re)translations of the Chinese Historical Novel Three Kingdoms (Sanguo yanyi): An Analysis of Social Context, Paratext and Text. Doctoral thesis, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

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Abstract

(Re)translations are essential in maintaining the currency and vitality of the source text through its evolving interpretations. The Retranslation Hypothesis (RH), despite sparking extensive scholarly debate, provides a foundation for delving into the concept of “closeness” between the source and target texts. This study critically examines the validity of the RH through an in-depth analysis of three English (re)translations of the Chinese classic, Three Kingdoms (Sanguo yanyi), published in 1925, 1991, and 2014. The study employs textual and paratextual approaches to scrutinize manipulations exerted by translators and other agents, aiming to interpret these (re)translations within their distinct sociohistorical contexts. The exploration is conducted by contextualizing the (re)translations within the societal ideologies and norms of their respective eras, considering the translators’ experiences, historical contexts, and reader feedback. A qualitative analysis of the paratexts unveils strategic adjustments of

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Three Kingdoms, English (re)translations, retranslation hypothesis, closeness, paratexts, supplementarity, manipulation.
Subjects:	P Language and Literature > PL Languages and literatures of Eastern Asia, Africa, Oceania
Divisions:	Theses and Dissertations > Doctoral Theses
Depositing User:	Juan Wang
Date Deposited:	17 Oct 2024 13:43
Last Modified:	17 Oct 2024 13:43
URI:	https://repository.uwtsd.ac.uk/id/eprint/3171

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