Translating Karel Schoeman's Hierdie lewe : strategies, decisions and process

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:The aim of this study is to produce an English translation of the first part ofKarel Schoeman's novel Hierdie lewe, translated as This Life. The thoughtprocesses of the translator are illustrated by means of descriptive annotations.The choice of source text is motivated and the specifications of thetarget text are formulated. The problem is stated that relatively few ofSchoeman's fictional works have been translated into English or otherlanguages and it is suggested that this might be because Schoeman's work isdifficult to translate, or even untranslatable. A possible reason for this may beSchoeman's distinctive style: rhythmic, lyrical and rich in imagery. The sourceculture may also be too specific and the cultural gap too wide.A hypothesis is formulated that translation is possible if thetranslational problems are identified. Certain strategies are devised andsolutions suggested. A hermeneutic interpretation of the source text and anoverall strategy of resistancy are advocated, resulting in a target text with amarked source-text inscription. However, a measure of domestication isunavoidable in the light of the final goal to create an equivalent text which isstill readable and will not alienate its addressees.A discussion of relevant concepts from translation studies theorysubstantiates and motivates the choice of translation strategies and solutions.A thorough reading analysis of the source text supplies the context for aninterpretation. Descriptive annotations focus on the translator's methodology.Conclusions are drawn about the effectiveness of the chosen strategies andsuggestions are made for further study.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University