Translation and Postmodernism

Author: Chen Yongguo
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: In the field of contemporary Western critical theory, translation theory has undoubtedly become another theoretical point. The diversity of cross-cultural practices directly triggers and intensifies the thinking and stances of theorists. Throughout the process of translation theory, almost all important critical theory resources of the contemporary era have been involved. Therefore, discussions in translation theory are inherently significant to the deepening of critical theory research. The selected readings in this book are both judicious and expansive. In addition to Benjamin's classic text The Task of the Translator, it includes indispensable works such as Derrida's Of Grammatology, Spivak's The Politics of Translation, and others that are essential to the field. It can be said that this book provides a foundational reading for the increasingly deepening and vibrant study of translation theory. Published in 1923, Benjamin's The Task of the Translator, after lying dormant for half a century, has stirred a whirlwind of debate in contemporary Western critical theory, particularly in the burgeoning field of translation studies today, due to its singular focus on language. Following this, deconstructionist masters like Derrida and De Man, postcolonial translation theorists such as Spivak, Gentzler, and Venuti, as well as critics passionate about postcolonial theory, feminism, globalization, and comparative literature, have highlighted the characteristics of international cultural exchange facilitated by translation in cross-cultural contexts. They have explored discourse, meaning, symbols, power, politics, and their roles in economic and military frameworks at a deeper linguistic level. The book compiles 25 classic texts related to translation and postmodern cultural politics, covering language, culture, and politics; spanning philosophy, literature, and theology; discussing discourse, power, and identity; and encompassing South/North, East/West, and global perspectives. The editors have outlined a panoramic view of translation theory within the framework of postmodern cultural theory.