A Skopos Approach To Translating Diplomatic Speeches

Translation is not simply word for word translation. When translating, the translator shall consider the readers, the translator and for what the translation is used. It is also true in many practical texts such as contract, report, advertisement, business letter and diplomatic speeches. Therefore, before translating a text, the translator is supposed to make it clear what type the text is,to whom the translation is shown and to what effect the translation is believed to reach. Different purposes result in different approaches of translation. So Skopos theory helps translators choose proper approaches.The thesis first briefly introduces translation of diplomatic speech, including introduction to its history, current situation and developing future. The thesis then introduces its key concept, including application rules, evaluation criteria and key values, of which application rules(i.e.three rules) are very practical for the translating practice. The three rules are supposed to help translators finish their translation task cohesively and loyally.The study and conclusion of the examples based on Skopos theory is anappreciated part, which takes Xi Jinping's speeches in Seattle as an example. It first introduces comment on Xi's visit made by experts and media to clarify the purpose and then analyzes choice of translation approaches according to the three rules of Skopos theory to contribute to translating practice of diplomatic speeches.