Translating As Reconstruction Of Textual Coherence In Context

The thesis begins with an analysis of linguistics-based and skopos-based translation theories. In such theories the TT (target text) is construed as the product of a translation process that seeks equivalence, functionality, and the achievement of a certain purpose. Both theories make their due contribution to translation studies. However, they have their weak points. Linguistics-based theory overemphasizes equivalence on linguistic level, neglecting textual coherence; failing to see translation as a cross-cultural communication. Skopos-based theory overvalues the purpose of translation, paying little attention to the content and style of the ST (source text). In view of this, a further study is needed as to how to reconstruct textual coherence which fits in with the reader's expectations and is accountable for semantic relations, stylistic and cultural features of the ST. To solve this problem, theories on coherence and context in text linguistics are applied to translation in this thesis. Context refers to the environment where a text occurs. It consists of three dimensions: linguistic, situational, and cultural. Coherence is referred to as a network of meaning relations that fulfils the reader's expectations. Its achievement relies on context. Translating is to reconstruct in the TT a coherence functionally parallel to that of the ST. Such reconstruction can only be done in context so as to allow the intended users to comprehend it, given their assumed linguistic, situational circumstance, and cultural background knowledge. Based on this research, the author proposes to define translating as a process of reconstructing textual coherence in context.The thesis consists of five chapters.Chapter â…  is a critical review of translation studies with focus on linguistics-based theory and skopos-based theory. First, their main viewpoints are introduced. Then analysis and commentary are made, pointing out their strong points and weak points.Chapter â…¡ serves as the theoretical basis for this study. It clarifies the concepts relevant to this study: text, context, and coherence. It further discusses the relationship of these concepts with translation; the necessity of reconstruction of textual coherence in context in the process of translation and the ways of achieving such purpose.