This essential new textbook guides readers through the social aspects and sociologically informed approaches to the study of translation.
Sergey Tyulenev surveys implicitly and explicitly sociological approaches to the study of translation, drawing on the most important and influential works both within translation studies and in sociology, as well as recent developments in the field. In addition to the theoretical grounding provided, the book explains in detail the methodology of studying translation from a sociological point of view.
Translation and Society discusses why translation should be studied sociologically, reinforces the foundation of the sociologically informed translation research already in existence in the field and outlines possible new directions for the future. Throughout the book there are many examples and case studies and each chapter includes thought-provoking discussion points, possible assignments, and suggestions for further reading. This is an invaluable textbook for undergraduate and postgraduate students of Translation Studies.
Introduction. 1. Setting the Scene 2. The Backdrop 3. Preparing to Act 4. Acting 5. Observing the Acting 6. Scenarios 7. A Panoramic View 8. A Close-Up 9. Negotiating a Balance. Conclusion
Biography
Sergey Tyulenev is Director of the MA programme in Translation Studies at Durham University, UK. His recent publications include Applying Luhmann to Translation Studies (Routledge. 2011) and Translation and the Westernization of Eighteenth-Century Russia (2012). His website can be found at www.tyulenev.org.
‘Of exceptional pedagogical quality, Tyulenev’s book is noteworthy for bringing together the various sociological models relevant to the study of translation and its agents. Readers are given a clear explanation of the connections and differences among these models, their interpretive value and their limitations. At the same time, the book suggests a research methodology that makes it an absolute must for students about to embark on a thesis. This highly informative textbook is bound to become a classic.’
Annie Brisset, University of Ottawa, Canada
'Translation and Society is a highly accessible and persuasive introduction to the major debates around the relationship between translators and society. Sergey Tyulenev is a superb guide to the many ways in which sociology engages with translation and his careful analysis and illuminating examples will be of great assistance to any student or tutor of translation studies who wants to understand what theories of society have to tell us about the work of the translator. More broadly, Translation and Society will be of interest to students and tutors across the humanities and social sciences who are interested in the core debates around language and society in our globalised and multilingual world.'
Professor Michael Cronin, Centre for Translation and Textual Studies, Dublin City University
