Module Code - Title:
TR6001
-
THEORIES AND APPLICATIONS IN TRANSLATION STUDIES
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
The module is designed to explore the theory and practice of translation from a variety of linguistic and cultural perspectives and to introduce students to research methods in the field of Translation Studies. Particular emphasis is placed on engaging critically with major concepts and models in the discipline drawing on examples from a wide range of languages and text types.
Syllabus:
The module entails a wide-ranging study of key issues in translation studies. It presents an overview of the field of Translation Studies drawing on the Holmes/Toury map and considers some early translation theories and debates. Students will critically engage with key concepts in translation theory such as translatability and the nature of linguistic meaning and equivalence, theories around equivalence and equivalent effect as well as translation and power. It also examines a variety of approaches to analysing the product and process of translation such as linguistic models (e.g. Vinay and Darbelnet's model and stylistic shifts) and discourse analysis approaches. The role of new technologies will be investigated with a particular focus on localisation and globalisation.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
• Demonstrate knowledge of the historical context and an understanding of the main issues and concepts in the field of translation studies.
• Apply this understanding to the investigation of aspects of translation practice.
• Synthesize complex translation models and apply them to the research and analysis of data.
• Evaluate the relevance of translation studies in the wider socio-cultural context.
• Produce academic work, both orally and in writing on the subject of translation.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
• Demonstrate awareness of the social responsibility of the translation profession and sensitivity to ethical issues around localisation, globalisation and the fragility of the 'linguistic ecosystem'.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
n/a
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module will involve three hours of contact per week. Students will be provided with an introduction to key issues and terms and provided with a guided list of theoretical readings. Theoretical discussion will be combined with the application of concepts to examples and case studies as well as research questions for further exploration. Students will develop greater capacity in taking responsibility, collaboration and critical thinking skills through group work activities. Confidence in applying disciplinary knowledge and problem solving will be encouraged by students undertaking a translation studies project and presenting findings in both written and oral format.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Baker, M & G. Saldanha (eds) (2019)
Routledge Encyclopedia of Translation Studies, 3rd Edition
, Routledge
Bassnett, S. (2014)
Translation
, Routledge
Malmkjær, K. (ed) (2022)
The Cambridge Handbook of Translation
, Cambridge University Press
Munday, J. (2016)
Introducing Translation Studies. Theories and Applications
, Routledge
Millan, C. & F. Bartrina (eds) (2017)
The Routledge Handbook of Translation Studies
, Routledge
Venuti, L. (ed) (2012)
The Translation Studies Reader. 3rd edition
, Routledge
Other Relevant Texts:
Cronin, M. (2010)
Translation and Identity
, Routledge
De Swaan, A. (2013)
Words of the world: The global language system, 2nd Edition.
, John Wiley & Sons.
Malmkjær, K. & K. Windle (eds) (2011)
The Oxford Handbook of Translation Studies
, Oxford University Press
Polizzotti, Mark. (2018)
Sympathy for the Translator: A Translation Manifesto
, The MIT Press.
Pym, A. (2014)
Exploring Translation Theories. 2nd edition
, Routledge
Venuti, L (2019)
Contra Instrumentalism: A Translation Polemic
, Nebraska: UNP
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Module Leader:
Veronica.ORegan@ul.ie