Official and Internet translations – comparison of culture-related aspects from the perspective of foreignization and domestication dichotomy

Patrycja Karpińska

doi:10.15503/jecs20182.136.153

Abstract

Aim. The study aimed at establishing whether there are any significant differences between the two translations of the same novels: one published unofficially and anonymously on the Internet, and the other published officially by the publisher. The elements taken into consideration in the analysis were: the culture-bound elements, the vulgar terms, and syntactic calques. Methods. The theoretical part of the research is based on the refraction theory by A. Lefevere (1992), according to whom translation is a process regulated by a system in which it functions. In opposition to the regulated translational activity stands unofficial Internet translation. The comparative analysis of the translations was further developed with the application the ‘foreignisation’and domestication dichotomy proposed by L. Venuti (1995). Results and conclusion. The results of the study imply that there are significant differences between the official and unofficial translations; the official translations aim at domesticating techniques, whereas the unofficial translations are more likely to apply ‘foreignising’ techniques, even at the cost of breaking cultural values of the target culture. Cognitive value. The Internet has become an inseparable part of modern people’s daily life, yet Internet activities are still not regulated and researched to such a degree as ‘real world’ ones. The study aims at showing differences between the Internet and official translation, however, it is not able to answer the question regarding the roots of these differences. Further inquiries would be necessary in this case – if even possible.

Highlights

The world has changed dramatically over the last decade
The study aims at showing differences between the Internet and ofÞcial translation; it is not able to answer the question regarding the roots of these differences
In the view of these two competing theories, the aim of this study is to attempt to answer the following questions: Are there any signiÞcant differences in the translations of cultural elements produced within the system and outside the system (Internet translation), which would suggest the validity of A

Summary

Introduction

The world has changed dramatically over the last decade. If one wanted to see a movie, he or she needed to go to the cinema or watch it on TV or VHS. If one wanted to read a book, he or she needed to borrow it from somebody, go to the library or to the bookstore. The rapid development of the technology and the wide Internet access have changed the Þeld of the cultural reception – it is much easier to access and consume the cultural products. The Þeld of the cultural reception has been affected, and the Þeld of cultural production. One of the areas that are subject of change is the area of translation. Anonymous and unofÞcial translations are becoming increasingly popular; it is becoming more and more common that there is an ofÞcial, paid translation on the commercial market and an unofÞcial, free translation on the Internet

Objectives

Results

Conclusion