Translation Variation Theory Viewed From The Four English Versions Of Ershisixiao

This thesis attempts to examine the feasibility of Translation Variation Theory in translating traditional Chinese works by comparing the four English versions of Ershisixiao, respectively translated by David K. Jordan,Yogi C. M. Chen,Yang Xun and Rev. Heng Sure.Translation Variation Theory (referred to as TVT hereafter) was proposed by Huang Zhonglian in 2001. Compared with complete translation, it means translators use a series translation strategy to translate materials selectively. TVT explores the general rule and essence of translation. Prof. Huang defines translation variation as"translators should choose and translate the relevant content of the source text in light of target text readers'specific needs in particular situations by employing such approaches as abstract translation, compilation, rendering freely, reduced translation, summarizing, commentary, translation review, adaptation, paraphrasing, transcribing and reference translation (Huang Zhonglian, 2001). TVT has been controversial in translation field. In the opinion of Xie Tianzhen, translation research from the aspect of"translation variation"can be regarded as the trend of translation study (Xie Tianzhen, 2000). While Tan Zaixi thought that it is impossible for the theory of translation variation to entitle modern translators the freedom their predecessors once enjoyed in translating (Tan Zaixi, 1999).The author analyzes the four English versions translated respectively by David K. Jordan,Yang Xun, Yogi C. M. Chen,and Rev. Heng Sure. Their different education and religion backgrounds leads to diversified translation purposes and highlights. By contrastive analysis of typical examples, the author examines the features, disadvantages and advantages of each version from the perspectives of translation strategy, translator subjectivity and contents of the four English versions, in order to testify the hypothesis that TVT is superior to complete translation in translating traditional Chinese works like Ershisixiao into English, because TVT can offer a target text that is easy to be accepted by target text readers. Meanwhile TVT better facilitate intercultural communication as well as rapid and effective dissemination of information.