Police interpretation examinations in Taiwan during the period of Japanese rule

Abstract

Purpose – During the period of Japanese rule after 1895, the language barrier resulted in social and political problems. Thus, the Japanese implemented an interpretation examination system, with an aim of encouraging rank-and-file members of the police force to learn interpretation. The system included tiers and stipends, and offered incentives such as career advancement. This policy, which started at the early period of Japanese rule, lasted up to 40 years. The purpose of this paper is to conduct an analysis of the contents of examinations and statements from interpreters in the system of multiple role interpreters during the period of Japanese rule in Taiwan. Design/methodology/approach – Through analysis of several hundred examination questions on Japanese-Taiwanese interpretation, and dozens of pieces of literature examining the interpreter reactions toward this system and the examination questions, this study will explore the examination methodology, content of examination questions, and the difficulty of the examinations. Findings – The tangible aspects of colonial rule can be seen through the contents of the examinations, and the roles and functions granted by the rulers to the interpreters can be described. Originality/value – The establishment of a database for police interpretation examination questions and analysis of said questions in database.