A Critical Introduction to Translation Studies

Jean Boase-Beier's Critical Introduction To Translation Studies demonstrates a keen understanding of theoretical and practical translation. It looks to instances where translation might not be straightforward, where stylistics play an important role. Examples are discussed from works of literature, advertisements, journalism and others, where effects on the reader are central to the text, and are reflected in the style. It begins by setting out some of the basic problems and issues that arise in the study of translation, such as: the difference between literary and non-literary translation; the role of language, content and style; the question of universals and specifics in language and the notion of context. The book then goes on to focus more closely on style and how it enables us to characterise literary texts and literary translation. The final part looks at the translation of poetry. Throughout, it is conscious of the relationship between theory and practice in translation. It begins by setting out some of the basic problems and issues that arise in the study of translation, such as: the difference between literary and non-literary translation; the role of language, content and style; the question of universals and specifics in language and the notion of context. The book then goes on to focus more closely on style and how it enables us to characterise literary texts and literary translation. The final part looks at the translation of poetry. Throughout, it is conscious of the relationship between theory and practice in translation.

Jean Boase-Beier is Professor of Literature and Translation at the University of East Anglia, UK.