Chapter 8

Abstract

This chapter explores the various intersections between cultural studies and translation studies, marking a shift away from purely linguistic theories toward an emphasis on translation as cultural transfer. It examines how translation engages with broader cultural, ideological, and political dynamics. The discussion begins with André Lefevere’s concept of translation as rewriting, highlighting the role of patronage, power, and poetics in shaping literary translation. It then turns to feminist translation theory, particularly the Canadian tradition that seeks to make the feminine visible in and through translation. Queer and transgender translation studies further expand this focus, challenging normative constructions of gender and sexuality and exploring the translation of non-normative identities and experiences. Postcolonial translation studies examine the legacy of colonialism, the role of language, and the politics of cultural representation. The final sections address translation and ideology, looking at how translations can reflect or resist dominant ideologies, especially in global institutions and multilingual societies. The next chapter examines the evolving role of the translator.

Video Introduction

Flashcards

Test your understanding of the foundational concepts within the chapter by using these flashcards.

Quiz

Test your understanding of this chapter with our multiple choice questions.

Research Questions

Lefevere (1992: 9, see chapter) considers translation to be ‘potentially the most influential’ form of rewriting. How far do you agree with him? Compare this with examples taken from other forms of rewriting (film adaptations, anthologization, historiography, etc.).
Look for examples from translations in various times and locations that reveal a gender bias. How is that bias revealed? Is there a pattern to these examples? How might the translator have acted differently?
How far do you agree with Niranjana that translation studies has been overly dominated by Western theories? If this is true, how can or should the situation be changed?
‘Co-existence implies translating the culture and (political, religious, emotional) language of the other into a language and culture that is strengthened by the presence of the other. The alternative to translation is the muteness of fear’ (Cronin 1996: 200, see chapter). How far does this statement hold for the linguistic policies of your own country?
In what ways might the researcher’s own ideology condition the choice of analytical tools and the relation to cultural theory?
Ideology has often been understood in the sense of manipulation in translation studies. Look at the recent work in this area. What definitions are given for ‘ideology’? What assumptions do researchers have about how ideology is manifested in translation? Is there a pattern to the findings of the different studies?

Cultural and Ideological Turns