On Translation of Cultural Images in Chang Hen Ge from the Perspective of Reception Theory

Abstract

Abstract Based on concepts of horizon of expectation and indeterminacy in reception theory, this paper reports a comparative analysis of Chang Hen Ge, a narrative poem written by Chinese poet Bai Juyi in the Tang Dynasty, and its English translations by William John Bainbrigge Fletcher, Herbert Allen Giles, Xu Yuanchong as well as Yang Hsien-yi and Gladys Yang. Results are as follows: 1) Xu’s translation is the best in that he adds annotations and combines literal and free translations so as to explicate cultural connotations and underlying implications of images while meeting and broadening target readers’ horizon of expectation. In addition, he tries to replicate figurative characteristics and transform rhetorical techniques of original cultural images to retain the source text’s indeterminacy and aesthetic value and to provide target readers with intense aesthetic experience. 2) There are inappropriate and inaccurate translations of cultural images in all the four English translations, and they are caused by differences in ethnic history, religious belief, mode of thinking, features of English and Chinese as well as the subjectivity of translators.