Department of Comparative Literature Fall 2006
C580: History and Theory of Translation
Section 25884
Prof. Losensky
MW 11:15-12:30


This seminar will explore the burgeoning field of translation
studies and the central role of translation in the field of
comparative literature. A survey of the history of translation, with
emphasis on the English tradition, will provide the background for
an in-depth examination of modern developments in translation
theory.  Concepts such as translatability, dynamic equivalence,
naturalization, and reception will be analyzed in relation with
various models of language, social communication, and poetics.
Participants in this seminar will be expected to play an active role
in presenting theoretical readings to class and leading discussions
of the material. Our discussions of theory will be complemented by
the presentation, critique, and preparation of actual translations.
Each participant will be asked to research the translation history
of a key work or genre from one foreign literature into English and
to consider the implications of theoretical models through short
translation projects. Required texts: The Translation Studies
Reader, edited by Lawrence Venuti, second edition (New York, 2004);
The Oxford Guide to Literature in English Translation, edited by
Peter France (Oxford, 2000); and a volume of the Penguin series
Poets in Translation to be determined. These texts will be
supplemented by other selected readings available in electronic
format.