Translation Norms And The Translator's Selection Of Source Texts And Translation Strategies

The study of translation norms is significant in descriptive translation studies. Translation norms intend to provide a way to construct the theoretical system of translation studies and to guide the process of translation as well as translation related activities. The study of the translator's subjectivity aims at highlighting the identity of the translator who is believed to be a crucial force influencing the product of translation. In the present thesis, the author seeks to prove that on the one hand, norms restrain the translator in social and cultural aspects;on the other hand, the translator strengthens his subjectivity through adapting himself to norms and making various selections during the process of translation.The thesis consists of six parts. The introduction explains the limitation of the concept of equivalence in translation, introduces the concept of norms and the importance of the translator's subjectivity, and gives an outline of the thesis.In Chapter One, the author reviews the development of translation norms and the translator's subjectivity, then explores the relationship between translation norms and the translator and points out the significance and originality of this research.In Chapter Two, the author examines translation norms in details, discussing its definition, classification, nature and development in descriptive translation studies.In Chapter Three and Chapter Four, the author discusses respectively the translator's selection of source texts under preliminary norms and his selection of translation strategies under operational norms. Through analyzing the manipulation of translation by external norms such aspolitical factors, cultural factors and economic factors, and through the case study of Six Chapters of a Floating Life, the author proves that norms definitely operate in the process of translation, and that at the same time the translator displays his subjectivity through his selections during the process.In the Conclusion, the author points out the significance of translation norms, which offer a way of explaining the phenomenon of translation and is of value in guiding translation practice. The translator, as the operator of the translation process, shows his special identity. Only with the cooperation of norms and the translator, can translation activities be carried on.