Translation Theory: Major Concepts And Models Of Translation Theory

.1 Chapter overview

The main aim of this chapter is to introduce the reader to major concepts and models of translation theories, concepts of equivalence and discuss importance of equivalents in scientific texts translation processes. It is an attempt to analyse what decisions are made by Polish translator when working with positive psychology texts in English, what models of translation can be adopted and how equivalence may be of use in this process.

2.2 Models of translation: Instrumental versus Hermeneutic Model

Although the history of translation theory and practice has been distinguished by a range of concepts and strategies, two approaches have recurred so frequently as to be considered dominant models. Venuti divides all translation models under two headings, depending on how they approach the problem of invariance in translation. First model is referred to as Instrumental. “On the empiricist assumption that language is direct expression or reference, the instrumental model treats translation as the reproduction or transfer of an invariant that the source text contains or causes, typically described as its form, its meaning, or its effect”. (Venuti 2010)This model builds on permanent, general approach to language and translation. Second model is referred to as Hermeneutics. “On the materialist assumption that language is creation

It practice of translation instrumental model is often understood dominant over hermeneutic model. Venuti strongly disagrees with this positioning approach and claims that “(…) the hermeneutic model is to be preferred over any instrumental understanding of translation because it offers a much more sophisticated account that is not only comprehensive (it can encompass instrumental concepts) but ethical. (Venuti :8) Cultural and social factors are taken into considerations which allows fullness and accuracy of