Cannibalism Translation Theory and Its Influence on Translation Studies in China

Abstract

Haroldo de Campos’ cannibalism translation theory boasts of distinct Brazilian cultural characteristics. With its rich and profound connotations, it has now become an important translation theory in the world. In China, Jiang (2003) first introduced cannibalism translation theory and it gradually aroused Chinese scholars’ academic interest. The current paper charts the developments of this theory by elaborating on its theoretical relationships with the West and China and exploring its theoretical value. Based on first-hand data, the paper focuses on the influences of the theory on translation studies in China. The study found that a) cannibalism translation theory has provided a new research perspective for Chinese translation studies scholars; b) it improved Chinese scholars’ understanding of Western and Chinese translation theories; c) it had a lasting academic influence on China’s translation studies.