Research Article
Constellation of the Five Constant Virtues in English Translations of The Analects
Shiwei Fu*
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2024
Pages:
50-60
Received:
1 October 2024
Accepted:
17 October 2024
Published:
25 October 2024
Abstract: The five constant virtues (rén, yì, lǐ, zhì, and xìn) are central to Confucian philosophy and have grown in influence over time, shaping not only traditional moral teachings but also contemporary practices in business management and personal development. However, limited research has explored how these virtues are translated and conceptualized in English versions of The Analects. This study aims to address this gap by examining how the five constant virtues are formed, related, and legitimized across four major English translations, spanning different historical periods. To achieve this, a mixed-methods approach is employed, integrating both qualitative and quantitative analyses. First, a multi-parallel corpus is established, enabling a detailed quantitative examination of how the five constant virtues are expressed across different translations. This analysis highlights variations in the rendering of these key concepts in each text. In parallel, Legitimation Code Theory’s (LCT) constellation analysis is applied for the qualitative component of the study. This approach explores the relationships among the virtues and how translators have conceptualized and structured these interrelations. Results indicate a reduction in variation over time, suggesting a stabilization in how the virtues are conceptualized. While translations consistently represent simpler pairings of virtues, differences emerge when more complex constellations involving all five elements are considered. These findings reveal how philosophical perspectives and temporal contexts shape translation, impacting the way Confucian virtues are legitimized and structured.
Abstract: The five constant virtues (rén, yì, lǐ, zhì, and xìn) are central to Confucian philosophy and have grown in influence over time, shaping not only traditional moral teachings but also contemporary practices in business management and personal development. However, limited research has explored how these virtues are translated and conceptualized in E...
Show More
Research Article
Preservation of Cultural Authenticity: Analysing Cultural Transfer in the Translation Process
Emirhan Ozturk*
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2024
Pages:
61-66
Received:
30 May 2024
Accepted:
11 September 2024
Published:
31 October 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijalt.20241004.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: This article deals with the analysis and importance of cultural transfer in the translation process. Translation is a complex process that acts as a bridge between language and culture and cultural transfer is an integral part of the translation process. Apart from grammar and word choice, translators need a deep cultural knowledge and sensitivity in order to understand the cultural elements in the source text and transfer them appropriately to the target language and culture. The article states that translation theories and approaches play an important role in analysing cultural transfer in the translation process. Theories and approaches such as equivalence theory, polysystem theory, cultural translation approach and postcolonial translation theories can be used to understand the translation process and provide a guiding perspective for translators. The impact of cultural transfer on the translation process is vital for the success of the translator. Cultural differences shape translation decisions and enable translators to convey the text accurately. Translators should have a deep cultural knowledge to understand the cultural context of the text and the expectations of the target culture. It also emphasises the interaction between language and culture in the translation process. Language is the main medium through which a culture is expressed, and language and culture influence each other in the translation process. Translators should understand both the language and cultural structure of the source culture and the norms and values of the target culture. In this way, they can accurately convey the text in the translation process. The role of translators in cultural transfer is to accurately convey cultural values and norms when transferring a text from the source culture to the target culture. Translators' responsibilities include interpreting cultural elements correctly, conveying cultural references appropriately and ensuring effective communication in the target culture.
Abstract: This article deals with the analysis and importance of cultural transfer in the translation process. Translation is a complex process that acts as a bridge between language and culture and cultural transfer is an integral part of the translation process. Apart from grammar and word choice, translators need a deep cultural knowledge and sensitivity ...
Show More
