Abstract:Translation of Chinese classics has always attracted worldwide attention. Whether the translation of a work is good or not, or whether it can be accepted by the English reader, depends on how much information about Chinese culture it conveys. Also, it involves in the extent of the transmission of cultural information and how to handle differences between Chinese and Western culture. As one of the Chinese classics, “A Dream of Red Mansions” contains rich cultural connotations, and the translation is a big challenge for translators. Domestication and foreignization, two types of translation strategies used in literary translation have different effects on the extent of the culture transmission. In the translation field, choice of these two strategies has always been a focus. This essay, based on the previous researches and findings, aims to study two English versions of “A Dream of Red Mansions”. One is translated by Yang Xianyi and Gladys Yang (hereinafter referred to as “the Yangs”) and one by David Hawkes and John Minford (hereinafter referred to as “Hawkes”) in the use of translation strategies to analyze their own values in transmitting cultural information. During the study process, we will have a better understanding of these two strategies. Meanwhile, by dissecting and demonstrating some one-sided views of domestication and foreignization, I intend to encourage more Chinese and foreign translators to use reasonable translation strategies. What makes the translation works be full of cultural connotations is that translators should have better understanding and awareness of culture rather than choosing which strategy. From an international perspective, good translated works will also make Chinese classics stand among the world culture forest. What’s more, it contributes to better conveying the essence of Chinese culture as well as stepping up cultural exchanges worldwide.

Keywords: domestication; foreignization; translation strategies; cultural transfer

Contents

中文摘要

Abstract

I. Introduction-1

1.1 Research Background-1

1.2 Significance and Purpose-1

1.3 Outline-2

II. Literature Review-3

2.1 Previous Researches or Findings in This Respect-3

2.2 Motivations for The Present Study-3

III. Translation and Cultural Transmission-5

3.1 Language and Culture-5

3.2 Translation as a Cross-cultural Practice-6

3.3 Translation and Cultural Transmission-6

IV. Domestication and Cultural Transmission-8

4.1 Domestication-8

4.2 Domestication in The Story of The Stone (Hawkes’ version)-8

4.3 Domestication in Cultural Transmission-11

V. Foreignization and Cultural Transmission-13

5.1 Foreignization-13

5.2 Foreignization in A Dream of Red Mansions (the Yangs’ version)-13

5.3 Foreignization in Cultural Transmission-15

VI. Conclusion-17

References-19

Acknowledgements-20