Unit name | Theories of Translation |
---|---|
Unit code | MODLM0005 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Dr. Foster |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None. |
Co-requisites |
None. |
School/department | School of Modern Languages |
Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
The unit will familiarize students with the history of translation and its seminal role in Western culture, considering the different ways in which translation has been conceptualised as both process and product; it will introduce students to a range of theoretical approaches to translation. A process of student-led investigation and discussion will develop critical reflection on the value and relative merits of such approaches. Particular attention will be given to the application of theoretical frameworks to the analysis of practical translation. A structured reading programme will prepare students to contribute to regular face-to-face seminars and online forums. Each student will research and present topics to the group. Topics will cover a range of specific theoretical approaches to the study of translation in relation to different text types: examples are likely to include historical studies, process-based studies, hermeneutics, descriptive and functionalist theories, translation as inter-cultural mediation.
On successful completion of this unit students will:
For the MA Translation: Delivered through distance learning, via Blackboard.
For the MA Chinese-English Translation: Delivered on site
With guidance from the unit tutor, students will be required to undertake a structured reading programme introducing key theoretical approaches. A number of topics will be chosen for a series of on-line discussion forums. Students will be required to participate in all of these and will present 2 topics in depth to the group and provide questions for the group to discuss. (Topics to be negotiated after the course introduction with the tutor.)
There are two components to assessment:
a) Assessed presentation (the student will select one of their two presentations for assessment): 40% – assessing ILOs 1-6 and especially 7
b) Case study (2500 words) applying a theoretical model to an existing translated text (students will be allowed to choose the text type and translation for analysis, subject to the tutor’s formal approval): 60% – assessing ILOs 1, 3-6