4翻译目的论视角下的汉语典籍英译——以《论语》英译为例
The Analects of Confucius: A Translation from a Translational Perspective
Introduction
The Analects of Confucius is an ancient Chinese classic text composed of a collection of sayings and ideas attributed to Confucius, the founder of Confucianism. It has been highly regarded as an invaluable source of information regarding Confucian philosophy since its compilation some two thousand years ago. This text holds a special place in Chinese culture, as it serves not only as a source of wisdom for the individual but also carries important cultural values and traditions. It is therefore unsurprising that the translations of this text have been particularly scrutinized, with the aim of preserving its original core meanings and making them accessible to a wider audience.
This paper will discuss the translation of The Analects of Confucius from a translational perspective, in order to provide an overview of the challenges and considerations necessary i
n this particular context. To support this discussion, an analysis of two existing translations of the text will be undertaken. The first translation is by Lionel Giles, published in 1910 by The Peking Monthly Magazine. The second is a new translation by Henry Rosemont Jr., published in 2019 by Hackett Publishing. Both of these translations will be critically evaluated from a 4-Way Translation perspective in order to examine how language, culture and context affect the translation of this text.
Background
The Analects of Confucius is a short text composed of approximately 500 aphorisms, divided into twenty books. It was originally written between 722 and 481 BCE and compiled in about 479 BCE by the followers of Confucius after his death. The primary purpose of the text is to provide guidance on personal virtue and moral values, such as the importance of filial piety, politeness and humility. It also includes various discussions on subjects such as politics, religion and education, among others. As a result, the text is significant not only as a source of spiritual and philosophical teachings, but also as a means to gain insight into the life and thought of Confucius and the beliefs of his time.
Translation Approach – 4-Way Translation
When translating a text, it is essential to consider the language, culture and context in which the text has been composed in order to ensure that the original intended meaning is conveyed accurately. This is known as the 4-Way Translation approach, which takes into account not only the form of the language (grammar, syntax and rhetoric) but also the cultural, religious and political implications of the text (from both the source and target language). For example, in the case of The Analects of Confucius, it is necessary to consider the differences between the Chinese and English languages and cultures in order to accurately convey the original meaning and intent of the text.
sayings翻译
Analysis of Existing Translations
Lionel Giles’ 1910 Translation
Lionel Giles’ translation of The Analects of Confucius is significant because it was one of the earliest English translations of the text. He provided his own interpretations of the text b
ased on his own understanding of the Chinese language, without attempting to preserve any of the original connotations or cultural references. His translation is often criticized for being too literal and failing to capture the nuances of the text. For example, he translates 人之初, “the beginning of a person”, as “the first men”, as opposed to taking into account the culturally specific connotations of the original phrase. Similarly, he translates 礼尚往来, “ceremonies carry the exchange of benefits”, as “ceremonies are the basis of return for kindness”, conveying the idea of transactions, rather than the concept of mutual beneficial relationships which is implied by the original Chinese phrase.
Henry Rosemont Jr.’s 2019 Translation
Henry Rosemont Jr’s translation of The Analects of Confucius is a more contemporary interpretation which seeks to preserve the original connotations and implications of the text. In comparison to Giles’ translation, Rosemont’s translation captures more of the nuances and cultural specificity of the text. For example, he translates 人之初, “the beginning of a person”, as “the initiation of humanity”, taking into account the implications of Confucius’ vie
w of man as the most noble and perfect being. Similarly, he translates 礼尚往来, “ceremonies carry the exchange of benefits”, as “etiquette celebrates reciprocity”, recognizing the important role of rituals in Confucian philosophy.
Conclusion
Overall, the 4-Way Translation approach is essential for the accurate and effective translation of texts. It is important to consider not only the form of the language but also the cultural, religious and political implications of the text in order to properly convey the original intended meaning of the text. The differences between the two translations of The Analects of Confucius discussed in this paper illustrate how varying approaches to translation can change the effect of the text. Consequently, it is clear that when attempting to translate a text, a great deal of thought and consideration is necessary in order to preserve the original meaning of the text.

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