The Problem of Non-Literary L2 Translation

Bc. David Konečný

Master's thesis

Abstract:

Diplomová práce představuje v teorii překladu mnohdy opomíjenou oblast neliterárního překladu do druhého jazyka; dále pak nastiňuje samotný problém a směřuje k návrhu jeho řešení.

Abstract:

Due to the fact that the issues surrounding second language translation are comparatively little-known and therefore of potential interests to theorists and translation professionals alike, it is the objective of this thesis to present a relatively comprehensive theoretical and historical background in order to raise awareness of both the unique characteristics of non-literary translation into the second language as well as the specific difficulties the translator may encounter. The theoretical discussion subsequently serves as a point of departure for establishing a practically-minded framework for analyzing the work of the translator, and – in accordance with the above – searching for solutions enabling him/her to work into a second language with greater efficiency and confidence. <br><br> The first part of the thesis is devoted to examining the current need for non-literary L2 translation. As the need for communication between members of language communities in the 21st century global village increases, the demand for translation rises accordingly and, since the number of L1 translators available is limited, especially in communities using languages of limited diffusion, non-literary L2 translation – primarily into the global variety of English – quickly becomes a necessity.<br> The thesis examines the traditional condemning outlook on L2 translation and deconstructs several largely obsolete but persistent myths, most notably the myth of the ideal native speaker and the ideal bilingual translator, in turn replacing them with more progressive views of directionality. In other words, aspects of L2 translation previously viewed as grounds for dismissal are re-assessed and analyzed from a contemporary and descriptive point of view in search of an applied, proactive approach.<br> Furthermore, instead of making general statements according to text-type, this thesis argues that it is far more practical and efficient to focus on aspects of communicative purpose and – above all – on the figure of the translator. The translator-centered approach forms the basic prerequisite for a study of competence, the most comprehensive source of information available relevant to the specific skills such a translator actually utilizes. Though the three types of translator competence discussed – communicative, textual and L2 – all provide relevant information, it is the discussion of a uniquely translation-related competence which serves as a springboard for the ensuing development of an analytical framework applicable to real-life translation.<br> The notion of decision-making and the concept of translation as problem-solving are found to constitute the best possible platform for an in-depth analysis of the L2 translator’s place between text and context, while individual issues including intuition, automatism, effort and risk-management are examined both individually and in combination in order to establish grounds for solving the “problem” of non-literary L2 translation. As the all-important 21st century criteria of speed and efficiency call for an extensive use of technology, electronic translation tools are brought into the picture. Such tools are seen as appropriate for application in a non-literary context and – most importantly – as extremely well-suited for inclusion in a problem-solving formula requiring TT generation and TT selection. A discussion of translation tool categories and their respective merits singles out corpus-based tools as the most suitable tool type for assisting the L2 translator, mainly due to the need for retrieving extensive contextual information; other tools traditionally preferred by the translation industry will doubtless find application as well, provided the translator uses them all with sufficient knowledgeability and awareness of potential pitfalls. Furthermore, not only are electronic translation tools perceived as a device enabling the L2 translator to

Abstract:

reach higher quality TTs, but above all as a means of achieving communicative purpose, reducing risk and advancing the translator’s interlanguage, intuition and confidence.

Keywords

L2 translation, non-literary translation, non-literary L2 translation, translation as problem-solving, decision-making in translation, languages of limited diffusion, global English, translator, competence, interlanguage, hybrid text, translation as communication, electronic translation tools, corpora, Web as a corpus, awareness

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 23. 1. 2009

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 30. 1. 2009
• Supervisor: PhDr. Jarmila Fictumová

Masaryk University

Faculty of Arts

Master programme / field:
Philology / English Language and Literature