Abstract: Based on general premises about referential theory, this study primarily intends to see what translation strategies were adopted in translating personal names in Hawkes’ and Yang Xianyi’s English versions of the classic novel A Dream of Red Mansions and whether cultural connotation was delivered to readers in some certain cultural contexts. By a comparative study of one hundred eighty seven personal names in the book as well as their counterparts in the two English versions. The author formulates their success and failure in translating the names in terms of cultural connotation. Besides, the study intends to provide experience and references for other translators in translating names of characters in novel and explores the possibility of transmitting Chinese traditional culture worldwide. According to this paper, two different strategies were adopted in these two English versions, translating sound and translating sense. Generally speaking, names in literary works have both the referential meaning and connotative meaning. Therefore, when choosing translating strategies, the translator should consider the cultural connotation in all the personal names. Furthermore, names should be translated in specific context. Finally, translator should coordinate a name with the translation style.

Key words: A Dream of Red Mansions; personal names; cultural connotation; translation strategies

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction..1

1.1 Literature Review

1.2 Purpose of the Study

2. Cultural Connotation and Translation of Appellations...2

2.1 Cultural Connotation of A Dream of Red Mansions

2.2 Translation in Two English Versions

3. Comparison between Two Versions5

3.1 Translation Strategies

3.2 Similarities between Two English Versions

3.3 Strengths and Weaknesses of Two English Versions

3.4 Reasons for Translation Strategies of Two English Versions

4. Conclusion

Bibliography.

Acknowledgements