A Study of the Translation of Allusions in Xi Jinping: The Governance of China

Abstract

As a model of China’s political documents, the three volumes of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China is not only of great and profound thoughts, but its language is also very beautiful and highly expressive. This thesis takes as the research object the allusions in Xi Jinping: The Governance of China. Such allusions fall into the five categories of proverbs, aphorisms, buzzwords, two-part allegorical sayings as well as classical Chinese poems and essays. Besides, the thesis analyzes the rhetorical features of the five types of allusions and discusses factors affecting the translation of allusions from the aspects of rhetoric and culture. It is found that the corresponding, omission-based, addition-based and supplementary translation strategies used in the English version contribute to the successful reproduction of President Xi Jinping’s language style and charm, which adds to the construction of China’s international discourse system. This study not only helps the English learners learn about translation strategies and methods, but it also helps them to better understand the connotation and significance of important political documents such as Xi Jinping: The Governance of China.

Keywords: Xi Jinping: The Governance of China; allusions; translation strategies

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/14-30-03

Publication date:October 31^st 2023