On The Translation Of Classical Chinese Poetry-From An Intertextual Perspective

The concept of intertextuality, originating from semiotics, is recognized as an important literary theory by western structuralists and destructuralists. According to intertextuality theory, no text is independent and the interpretation of a certain literary text should be based on the correct and thorough identification of its intertextuality. Translation is a type of transforming activity intertextualized with language, culture and thinking, thus it is by nature an intertextualized activity. The affinity between this theory and the nature and process of translation makes it possible and necessary to introduce intertextuality into translation studies. Many scholars both at home and abroad have dedicated themselves to making research on translation from an intertextual perspective.Classical Chinese poetry is the cream of classical Chinese literature, and with its unique charm, is also cherished as the treasure of world literature. With a highly condensed form, it intends to say most in the fewest words and provide readers with great room of association. Intertextual signals, which abound in classical Chinese poetry, contribute a great deal to the charm and vitality of Chinese poetry. But, on the other hand, it also brings about many complications for its translation. Proper treatment of intertextual signals in translation can help the translator to effectively overcome cultural barriers and reproduce intertextuality as much as possible so as to achieve a higher degree of cultural exchange. This thesis makes a theoretical exploration of the relation between intertextuality and translation and analyzes the transfer of intertextual signals in the translation of classical Chinese poetry. It holds that the translator is justified to adopt flexible translation strategies to transfer intertextual signals in accordance to varied situations.