Abstract: This paper comprehensively explores Reception Theory and translation, specifically expounding the relationship between readers and translators, readers and translation as well as readers’ reception in translation. Also, it analyzes the enlightenment of readers’ reception on translation so that target text (TT) readers’ status can be revealed in the whole process of translation, a decisive factor in interpreting and accepting target texts. In the meanwhile, this paper introduces the concept of defamiliarization and applies it to translation, stressing its essential role in translation. In order to make translation more interactional with target readers, translated works are supposed to assume defamiliarization, the language and style which deviate somewhat from the conventional way target readers get used to. Through the uncertainty of meaning and the novelty of language, translation of literary works can get readers involved in experiencing aesthetics and obtain aesthetic pleasure.

Key words: translation; readers’ reception; horizon of expectation; defamiliarization;

          enlightenment

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction.1

2. Literature Review2

3. Reception Theory and Translation 4

3.1 Readers and Translators

3.2 Readers and Translation

3.3 Reader's Reception in Translation

4. Reader's Reception and its Enlightenment on Translation.7

4.1 Complying with Reader's Expectation 

4.2 Updating Reader's Expectation in Terms of Defamiliarization

    4.2.1 Defamiliarization

    4.2.2 Defamiliarization in Translation

5. Conclusion .11

Bibliography  .14

Acknowledgements16