Spring 2010

MES 381 • THEORY/ PRACTICE LITERARY TRANSLATION

Course Description

This course is aimed at familiarizing students w/ various translation theories as well as topics pertaining to the practice of literary translation. We will address such issues as different types of translation; approaches to & methodologies of translation; annotated translations; economic, political, social, & cultural factors; the role of the translator as a creative artist or a "conduit"; cultural aspects of translation; selection of texts; publication of translations; translating as critical reading; group translations; special purpose translations; analysis of existing translations; approaches to translating different genres; & the reception of translations in target language cultures. Each student will give two 30-minute presentations: 1) on an assigned book on translation theory & 2) evaluation/discussion of an existing translation. Students will also have several small translation assignments from literary & nonliterary texts, which will be discussed in class.

Grading Policy

Class participation 60% Final project 40%: 15-page paper on translation theory or a translation of a literary text (after consultation with the instructor) into English.

Texts

Photocopied materials.

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