Value in Translation

Studying texts in translation opens a new window of understanding, and it provides multiple advantages in the study of literature, particularly in relation to the learning outcomes of Part 3 of the course. Texts that are translated from some other foreign language provides insight into their context. Beliefs and values may differ depending on the culture in which the text originates, and this may come through in its translation. What may also give insight into the context of a translated work are the ideals that are shared through it. It can tell us a lot about the authors views and the political conditions surrounding the writing of the original novel. Such is the case with the Thief and the Dogs by Naguib Mahfouz, as the translated text gives the reader a view on the political standpoint of Mahfouz, and his dissatisfaction with the outcomes of the Egyptian revolution, through the characterisation of Said, the main character of the novel. These are just a few advantages in the study of translated texts.

The main argument against the translating of texts is the loss in its meaning. Often, the original language his high degrees of meaning embedded within it that no other language can accurately replicate. With a loss of meaning comes of loss of authenticity, which is a disadvantage.

However, in the article titled 'Why won't English Speakers read books in translation?' which we discussed in class, the author Hephzibah Anderson argues that translated texts should be encouraged. She begins be stating that only 2-3% of English publishers output consists of texts in translation, and follows by statistically proving that translated texts are successful. But she ends it by arguing that to increase the output of texts in translation is to "preserve the variety and pungent authenticity that local fiction encapsulates." That is the ultimate advantage.