On translation history

TL;DR

Translation is not just about comparing texts, but about exploring the invisible borders between languages and cultures, and understanding the historical, social, and political contexts in which translations are produced.

Transcript

My purpose is to get across this very simple idea: when you compare translations we pick up translations as texts to study, you get a start text there and the translation over here and you get good at comparing them and you find out there there are differences, shifts and then you look for an explanation. When you do that you are implicitly assumi... Read More

Key Insights

• 🫥 Translation involves more than comparing texts; it requires understanding the invisible borders and historical context between languages and cultures.
• ✊ The translation profession is influenced by the social, political, and power dynamics of nation-states.
• 👯 Translation flows are often irregular, reflecting the demand for translations and people's willingness to learn languages.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is it important to consider the invisible borders between languages and cultures in translation studies?

Considering the borders helps us understand the historical, social, and political contexts in which translations are produced, and the influences on translators' decisions.

Q: What is the significance of studying the history of translators?

Studying the history of translators allows us to uncover the hidden dynamics of power, censorship, and resistance, and how translators have navigated these forces throughout history.

Q: How does the irregularity of translation flows impact the translation profession?

The irregularity reflects the demand for translations and people's willingness to learn languages rather than relying solely on translators, highlighting the need for a flexible and adaptable labor force.

Q: How do power structures and repressive regimes affect translation?

Power structures and repressive regimes can control and restrict the movement of texts, leading to censorship and the suppression of ideas, which affects translators' ability to work freely.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Translations are not just texts, but they involve the exploration of borders between languages and cultures, which are often invisible and assumed.

• Understanding the role of translators in history requires considering the social, political, and cultural factors that influence their work.

• The repressive regimes and power structures of nation-states have had a profound impact on the translation profession.