Research Article
Reviewing Critical Translation Theory: New Ideas for Writing Translation History
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
81-89
Received:
13 June 2025
Accepted:
3 July 2025
Published:
30 July 2025
Abstract: This article explores the implications of Lydia H. Liu’s Critical Translation Theory for the study of translation history, examining its theoretical framework, methodological approaches, and the challenges it poses to traditional historiography of translation. It begins with an overview of existing research on translation history, highlighting the limitations of conventional approaches and tracing recent scholarly discussions on critically rewriting translation history. The article then focuses on Liu’s theoretical contributions. Drawing on interdisciplinary tools from history, semiotics, and postcolonial theory, Liu reveals the dynamic role of translation in the production of power, culture, and knowledge. Her critical translation theory not only offers a set of critical tools for translation historians, but also prompts a rethinking of translation’s role in global cultural exchange and power negotiations. Liu’s methodological innovations facilitate a shift in translation history research from a history of linguistic transfer to a history of power relations and knowledge production, thus providing both theoretical resources and practical pathways for rewriting the history of translation.
Abstract: This article explores the implications of Lydia H. Liu’s Critical Translation Theory for the study of translation history, examining its theoretical framework, methodological approaches, and the challenges it poses to traditional historiography of translation. It begins with an overview of existing research on translation history, highlighting the ...
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Research Article
A Study on the Translation of Decorative Pattern Terms in Dunhuang Culture from the Perspective of Transknowletology
Chong Tianlin*,
Chen Yunxia
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
90-99
Received:
19 June 2025
Accepted:
7 July 2025
Published:
7 August 2025
Abstract: As an artistic treasure of Chinese civilization and a vital witness to the cultural exchanges along the ancient Silk Road, the Dunhuang Mogao Caves possess immense cultural significance. The accurate translation of decorative pattern terms related to Dunhuang culture is essential for promoting the rich heritage of traditional Chinese culture on a global stage. Guided by Transknowletology and its principles of truth, goodness, and beauty, this study systematically explores the classification and translation methods for Dunhuang cultural decorative pattern terms. These terms are classified into three categories based on their attributes: cultural, formal, and functional. Within the theoretical framework of Transknowletology, distinct translation strategies are proposed for each category: transliteration with annotation for cultural terms to ensure the full transmission of cultural meaning; a combination of literal translation and aesthetic expression for formal terms to accurately convey visual features while enhancing artistic appeal; and literal translation supplemented by functional notes for functional terms to precisely communicate their practical roles. Through detailed case analysis, this study demonstrates that the proposed classification and translation strategies effectively address the challenges of cultural differences and semantic gaps in translating Dunhuang decorative pattern terms. The findings offer both theoretical insights and practical guidance for the international dissemination of Dunhuang culture.
Abstract: As an artistic treasure of Chinese civilization and a vital witness to the cultural exchanges along the ancient Silk Road, the Dunhuang Mogao Caves possess immense cultural significance. The accurate translation of decorative pattern terms related to Dunhuang culture is essential for promoting the rich heritage of traditional Chinese culture on a g...
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