Latvian Translation and Bilingual Lexicography Scene

Abstract

Translation needs tools; the most widespread and the early tools for all nations have been (bilingual) dictionaries. In absence of the necessary language pair dictionary translators seek advice in other language dictionaries. Translators have also often been the authors of dictionaries. Development of Latvian writing, translation and lexicography shows numerous parallel and amazingly similar processes to the neighbours’ testifying to the common space of knowledge (Wissensraum). Latvian lexicography starts with bilingual dictionaries connected with translation and religious needs. National awakening/awareness movement in the 19th century led to a greater variety of translations and dictionaries. Notably, monolingual Latvian dictionaries appeared only in the second half of the 20th century, testifying to the importance of bilingual lexicography that facilitates language contacts. Bilingual dictionaries have dominated the lexicography scene of Latvia from its start until today. The 20th century with its expanding translation needs produced an even greater variety of translations and bilingual dictionaries.