Linguocultural Aspects оf the Translation оf Jokes and Anecdotes (Based оn Examples from Three English and American Comedy Series)

Abstract

The article examines some linguocultural aspects in the translation of comedy series, focusing on two English series created between 1977 and 1992 – “MindYourLanguage”(1977),“‘Allo,‘Allo”(1982–1992),andtheAmericanshow “The Nanny” (1993). The difficulties in translating linguistic features, deviances in the characters’ speech, the challenges in translating the cultural code as a whole, and their relevance to ensuring the success of communication, are examined. The article also focuses on the figure of the foreigner, common to the three series, and on the translation of cultural notes and stereotypes as a test for the translator, who must recreate not only linguistic differences, but also the distinctive features of individual cultures and ethnicities, without abandoning his cultural code. The effect of this clash does not affirm the humiliating attitude towards a certain ethnicity or culture, and the humor shows a desire to overcome stereotypes, expressing that the differences between us as people are not that many.