A Tentative Analysis Of Literary Translation Norms

First, with on- line translation behaviours increasing day by day, some researchers have analysed the modes of on-line translating, features of on- line translations and other related topics. Nevertheless, few studies have discussed deeper issues concerning on- line translation. The quality of on- line translations is uneven and the related ethical issues are worth consideration. Thus, it is necessary to study the translation norms involved in or guiding on- line translation. Second, regarding translation norms, many have conducted case studies, whereas seldom have they analysed the cases in the Internet context. In view of this situation, this thesis tries to describe the translation behaviours in an on-line case.The methodologies employed in this thesis are primarily concept analysis based on documentation and case study from a descriptive approach. First, this thesis adopts Chesterman’s translation norms as its theoretical basis, due to the fact that this theory is more operable as regards translation behaviours themselves and could be applied to describe on- line translation. Second, this thesis analyses the concept of paratext and hypertext and their significance for on- line translation studies. And this thesis attempts to define the paratextual elements in the Internet context, which can reflect the features of on- line translation and serve as starting points to investigate normative behaviours. Following this is a case study of on-line translational acts. Xiao’er’s on- line translations of Raymond Carver’s short stories have aroused heated discussions and many of his translations have been published by several printing houses. This thesis delves into the expectancy and pro fessional norms reflected in that typical case by referring to both the translated texts themselves and their paratextual elements.Xiao’er’s on-line translation behaviours basically conform to the translation norms posited by C hesterman and therefore his translations could be accepted by readers and publishers. This thesis intends to apply the translation norm theory to on- line literary translation, in the hope of enriching case studies of translation norms and attempting to offer a reference for other on-line translators.