Challenges of political translation

Abstract

Research topicality: Political texts are mainly available in translation. Thus, it is very important to provide the reader with an overt translation. To improve the quality of political text translation, it is important to understand and be able to notice the key language elements of the text, keeping in mind that political texts and political translations are manipulative. Figurative language is used to give language elements a figurative meaning and therefore creates a much more vivid image of the text. The aim: To study manipulative devices in political speeches. Research methodology: The analytical method is used in the analysis of literature on political translation and in transcript translations of political speeches. A contrastive analysis on source and target texts is made. To show the stylistic differences or similarities between the source text and translated text, two political speeches and their translation are analysed. A questionnaire for experienced and novice translators is used to prove, or reject the results of the analysis. Main findings: Not only political texts, but their translations as well are always manipulative. Figurative language tools are often used in translations of political speeches, mostly metaphors and epithets. The results of the questionnaire show that figurative language tools are used in everyday translations of political texts, and they reinforce the results gained from the political speeches analysis.