An Analysis of the Classical of Mountains and Seas from Three Dimensional Transplantation --Illustrated by the case of Birrell’s English translation

Abstract

Illustrated by the example of Birrell’s English translation, this paper analyzes The Classical of Mountains and Seas from three aspects: linguistic dimension, cultural dimension and communicative dimension. It is found that Birrell adopts annotation and thick translation, as well as abundant preface, postscript, illustration and other sub texts, which reflect the translation thought of reproducing the original text, and represents a picture of the unique experience of ancient Chinese to the target readers. Although misinterpretation in her translation can not be avoided, Birrell’s translation is a powerful attempt by Western Sinologists to translate Chinese culture, which has played a positive role in the spread of Chinese culture.