On The Translation Of Culture-Loaded Words In Hongloumeng From The Perspective Of Skopos Theory

Skopos theory, which developed from German functionalism, holds that translation is a form of transnational action based on a source text and the prime principle determining any transaction process is the purpose (skopos) of the overall transactional action. This theory had replaced "equivalence", an aged yardstick to judge the quality of translation with "adequacy", and has provided a new perspective for translation studies.This thesis attempts to apply skopos theory and make a comparative study of the two English versions of Hongloumeng in terms of culture-loaded words. The author tries to explore various factors that influence translator's choice of strategies in the translation process, and accordingly what effects of the translations are achieved.Through a comparative study of the two English versions of Hongloumeng (translated by Yang Xianyi and Gladys Yang and David Hawkes respectively), the research reveals that two translators adopt two different strategies, namely, the Yangs adopted a documentary, source language and culture-oriented translation in order to introduce Chinese cultural heritage, while Hawkes adopted a communicative, instrumental, target language and culture-oriented translation with a purpose of entertaining the target reader. Then the research further reveals that different characteristics represented in the two versions and the different expected functions of the TT are consistent with the skopos they set to reach.Yet, it is hard to say which version is better since the two translations both have their own merits and advantages. As regard to the Chinese culture, the Yangs do well in keeping the cultural heritage; while concerning the target readers, Hawkes' version is more acceptable. The author arrives at a conclusion that the two versions account for the different strategies the translators take in their translation, and each translation is adequate when its purpose (skopos) is achieved.