14.1 History of Chinese literature in translation
3 min read•august 6, 2024
Chinese literature in translation has a rich history spanning centuries. Early sparked European interest by translating . This laid the groundwork for the academic field of , which emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries.
In the 20th century, influential translators like and brought Chinese poetry to Western audiences. and further expanded the scope of translated works, while ' translation of became a landmark achievement.
Early Translations and Sinology
Jesuit Missionaries and Early Translations
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- Jesuit missionaries were among the first Europeans to study Chinese language and culture in the 16th and 17th centuries
- , an Italian Jesuit, was one of the most influential early missionaries who learned Chinese and translated Confucian classics into Latin ()
- , a French Jesuit, translated Ricci's journals into Latin, which became a primary source of information about China for Europeans
- These early translations, although not always accurate, sparked interest in Chinese culture and literature among European intellectuals
The Rise of Sinology
- Sinology, the academic study of Chinese language, history, and culture, emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries
- Early sinologists, such as and , translated Chinese texts and taught Chinese language in European universities
- Sinologists played a crucial role in introducing Chinese literature to the Western world and laid the foundation for more accurate and comprehensive translations in the 20th century
Influential 20th Century Translators
Arthur Waley and Ezra Pound
- Arthur Waley, an English orientalist, translated numerous Chinese texts, including the and the poetry of and
- Waley's translations were known for their clarity, elegance, and accessibility, making Chinese literature more appealing to a wider audience
- Ezra Pound, an American poet, was influenced by Chinese poetry and incorporated its themes and techniques into his own work ()
- Pound's translations, although often based on earlier English translations, helped popularize Chinese poetry among modernist writers and readers
Lin Yutang and Burton Watson
- Lin Yutang, a Chinese writer and translator, introduced Chinese culture and philosophy to the English-speaking world through his translations and original works ()
- Lin's translations and essays presented a more nuanced and sympathetic view of Chinese culture, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions
- Burton Watson, an American scholar and translator, translated a wide range of Chinese texts, from ancient classics to
- Watson's translations were known for their accuracy, readability, and poetic sensibility, setting a high standard for future translators
David Hawkes and The Story of the Stone
- David Hawkes, a British sinologist, is best known for his translation of the classic Chinese novel, The Story of the Stone (also known as )
- Hawkes' translation, published in five volumes between 1973 and 1986, is considered a masterpiece of translation and a landmark in the history of Chinese literature in the West
- The Story of the Stone, a complex and psychologically profound novel, became more accessible to English-speaking readers through Hawkes' translation, which captured the nuances and beauty of the original text
Contemporary Translators
New Generations of Translators and Expanding Horizons
- Contemporary translators continue the legacy of their predecessors, bringing a wider range of Chinese literature to global audiences
- has translated numerous modern and contemporary Chinese novels, including works by (Nobel Prize laureate) and
- has translated works by , one of the most influential writers in modern Chinese literature, as well as contemporary authors like and
- , an American author and translator, has translated science fiction and fantasy works by Chinese writers, such as 's , which has gained international acclaim
- As more contemporary Chinese literature is translated, readers around the world gain access to diverse voices and perspectives, enriching the global literary landscape
Key Terms to Review (31)
Analects of Confucius: The Analects of Confucius is a collection of sayings and ideas attributed to the Chinese philosopher Confucius and his disciples, serving as a foundational text for Confucianism. This work highlights moral teachings, social values, and principles of governance that influenced not only Chinese culture but also literature and philosophy throughout history.
Arthur Waley: Arthur Waley was a prominent British sinologist and translator known for his influential translations of Chinese literature, particularly during the early 20th century. His work played a crucial role in introducing Chinese literary classics to the Western world, addressing both the beauty of the texts and the challenges inherent in translating them.
Burton Watson: Burton Watson was a prominent American sinologist and translator known for his influential translations of classical Chinese literature, particularly poetry and philosophical texts. His work played a crucial role in introducing Chinese literary traditions to a Western audience and significantly shaped the field of Chinese literature in translation.
Cathay: Cathay is a historical term used in Western literature to refer to China, particularly during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. It symbolizes the allure and mystery of the distant East, often portrayed as a land of wealth and cultural sophistication in literary texts. The term reflects not only geographical understanding but also the cultural perceptions and interactions between East and West during significant periods of exploration and trade.
Confucian Classics: Confucian Classics refer to the foundational texts that embody the teachings and philosophical principles of Confucianism, a major school of thought in Chinese culture. These texts, such as the 'Analects,' 'Book of Songs,' and 'Book of Rites,' have profoundly influenced Chinese literature, ethics, and governance throughout history, serving as essential reading for scholars and civil servants in imperial China.
David Hawkes: David Hawkes was a prominent British sinologist and translator known for his influential translations of classical Chinese literature into English. His work, particularly on texts like 'The Journey to the West' and 'The Story of the Stone,' significantly shaped the understanding and appreciation of Chinese literary culture in the West, bridging the gap between Eastern and Western literary traditions.
Dream of the Red Chamber: Dream of the Red Chamber, written by Cao Xueqin in the 18th century, is one of China's greatest classical novels, exploring themes of love, family, and the decline of a noble family. It intricately combines elements of reality and dreams to reflect on social hierarchies, personal desires, and the fleeting nature of life.
Du Fu: Du Fu was a renowned Chinese poet from the Tang Dynasty, often regarded as one of the greatest poets in Chinese history. His work reflects a deep engagement with the socio-political realities of his time, showcasing the struggles and sufferings of ordinary people amid the turmoil of war and societal change.
Ezra Pound: Ezra Pound was an American poet and critic, known for his significant role in the modernist movement and his efforts to promote Chinese literature and culture through translation. He is particularly famous for his translations of classical Chinese poetry, which helped introduce Eastern literary traditions to Western audiences and influenced the course of world literature.
Han shaogong: Han Shaogong is a contemporary Chinese writer known for his innovative narrative style and focus on the interplay between language, culture, and identity. His work often challenges traditional literary conventions and explores the complexities of modern Chinese society, making him a significant figure in the context of Chinese literature in translation.
Howard Goldblatt: Howard Goldblatt is a prominent American translator known for his significant contributions to the translation of modern and contemporary Chinese literature into English. His work has been pivotal in introducing Chinese authors to a wider audience, enriching the understanding of Chinese culture and literature in the global literary landscape.
Jean-Pierre Abel-Rémusat: Jean-Pierre Abel-Rémusat was a French sinologist and scholar known for his contributions to the translation and study of Chinese literature in the early 19th century. His work laid the foundation for Western understanding of Chinese texts, promoting the importance of Chinese literature through his translations and scholarly writings, significantly impacting the field of sinology.
Jesuit missionaries: Jesuit missionaries were members of the Society of Jesus, a Roman Catholic religious order founded in the 16th century, known for their role in promoting Christianity through education, cultural exchange, and missionary work around the world. They played a significant part in the introduction and translation of Chinese literature to Europe, bridging cultural gaps and fostering intellectual dialogue.
Jia pingwa: Jia Pingwa is a prominent contemporary Chinese author known for his literary works that explore the themes of rural life, societal change, and human psychology. His narratives often blend elements of realism and magic realism, reflecting the complexities of modern China while providing insight into traditional values and cultural heritage.
Julia Lovell: Julia Lovell is a prominent scholar and translator known for her work on Chinese literature and culture, particularly in making classical and modern Chinese texts accessible to a broader audience. Her contributions have significantly influenced the understanding of Chinese literature in the English-speaking world, highlighting its richness and diversity.
Ken Liu: Ken Liu is an acclaimed author and translator known for his contributions to both science fiction and fantasy literature, as well as his role in translating Chinese literature into English. His work often bridges cultural divides, offering a unique perspective on Chinese narratives and themes while making them accessible to a global audience.
Li Bai: Li Bai was a renowned poet of the Tang dynasty, celebrated for his imaginative and passionate verse. He is often seen as one of the greatest poets in Chinese history, embodying the spirit of Romanticism and the ideals of freedom and individuality in poetry, which reflect broader themes and trends in the literary landscape of his time.
Lin Yutang: Lin Yutang was a Chinese writer, translator, and philosopher known for his significant contributions to the introduction of Chinese literature and culture to Western audiences during the 20th century. He blended traditional Chinese thoughts with Western philosophy, creating a unique perspective that made Chinese works more accessible and relatable to readers outside of China.
Liu Cixin: Liu Cixin is a renowned Chinese science fiction writer, best known for his award-winning novel 'The Three-Body Problem,' which is part of the Remembrance of Earth's Past trilogy. His works have gained international acclaim, bridging cultural and literary gaps between Chinese and global science fiction, thus influencing the history of Chinese literature in translation.
Lu Xun: Lu Xun was a prominent Chinese writer and cultural critic, often considered the father of modern Chinese literature. His works reflect deep social criticism and a focus on the struggles of the individual against societal norms, making significant contributions to the history of Chinese literature in translation and shaping its reception in the West.
Matteo Ricci: Matteo Ricci was an Italian Jesuit priest and missionary who played a significant role in the cultural exchange between Europe and China during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. He is best known for his efforts to introduce Western science and Christianity to China, while also learning about Chinese culture, which influenced the way Chinese literature and thought were later translated into Western languages.
Mo Yan: Mo Yan is a renowned Chinese author and the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2012. His works are characterized by magical realism, blending folk tales, history, and contemporary social issues to create rich narratives that reflect China's complexities and cultural heritage.
Nicolas Trigault: Nicolas Trigault was a Belgian Jesuit priest and missionary known for his significant contributions to the translation and introduction of Chinese literature to the Western world in the early 17th century. His efforts helped pave the way for better understanding and appreciation of Chinese texts among European scholars and the broader public, bridging cultural gaps between East and West.
Sinology: Sinology is the study of China, its language, literature, culture, and history, particularly in a scholarly context. This field encompasses various aspects of Chinese civilization, including its philosophical traditions, artistic expressions, and historical developments. Sinology has played a crucial role in understanding the evolution of Chinese literature and its translation into other languages, bridging cultural gaps and fostering international appreciation.
Stanislas Julien: Stanislas Julien was a French sinologist and translator who played a vital role in the introduction of Chinese literature to the Western world during the 19th century. His work significantly impacted the understanding of Chinese texts, making them accessible to a broader audience and influencing subsequent translations and studies in sinology.
Tang Dynasty Poetry: Tang Dynasty Poetry refers to the remarkable body of verse produced during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), which is often considered the golden age of Chinese poetry. This period saw a flourishing of poetic forms, themes, and styles, profoundly influencing Chinese literature and establishing lasting traditions. The era is marked by diverse poetic genres, intricate language, and deep emotional expression that resonated with both personal and social themes, shaping literary criticism and translation efforts for centuries to come.
The Four Books: The Four Books are a collection of foundational texts in Confucianism, comprising the 'Great Learning,' the 'Doctrine of the Mean,' the 'Analects,' and the 'Mencius.' These texts serve as essential guides to Confucian thought, exploring moral philosophy, governance, and the cultivation of personal virtue, thus shaping Chinese education and culture for centuries.
The importance of living: The importance of living emphasizes the value of life and existence in a profound way, encouraging individuals to appreciate their experiences, relationships, and the world around them. This concept connects deeply with various aspects of Chinese literature, where themes of existence, morality, and human experience are often explored, reflecting the philosophical underpinnings and cultural values of society.
The Story of the Stone: The Story of the Stone, also known as Dream of the Red Chamber, is a classic Chinese novel by Cao Xueqin that explores themes of love, fate, and social class through the lives of the Jia family in 18th century China. This intricate narrative weaves together the lives of its characters with philosophical reflections and rich symbolism, making it a cornerstone of Chinese literature.
The three-body problem: The three-body problem refers to a classic problem in physics and mathematics that seeks to predict the motion of three celestial bodies interacting with each other through gravitational forces. This concept is not only central to the study of celestial mechanics but also serves as a metaphor within various works of literature, highlighting themes of chaos, complexity, and interconnectedness in human relationships and society.
Zhu wen: Zhu wen refers to a style of classical Chinese prose that emphasizes clarity, conciseness, and a direct connection to the spoken language. This literary form was developed during the late Tang dynasty and became prominent in the Song dynasty, often used for essays and memorials. Zhu wen was valued for its ability to convey thoughts and ideas in a straightforward manner, contrasting with more ornate and complex styles of writing.