《历史上的译者》(Translators through History)介评

Book Review: Translators through History

本文是对《历史上的译者》一书的介评。该书是国际译联世界翻译通史撰写计划的阶段性成果,由数十位翻译史专家集体撰写而成,最早出版于1995年,2012年修订再版。该书分别从字母的发明、民族语言的形成、民族文学的发展、知识传播、权力关系、宗教传播、价值观念传播、词典编纂及口译员的历史贡献等角度,描述并探讨了历史上重要译者对人类文明发展的贡献。该书的特色是以译者为中心、内容丰富、视角新颖,且借鉴了跨学科的理论成果。而其不足则在于对个体译者形象的描述不够丰满,对欧洲以外地区翻译史的勾画比较粗疏。本文认为,有关译者的研究视角还有进一步垦拓和深挖的空间。

This paper is a critical review of Translators through History. The book was first published in 1995, and updated in 2012. Jointly written by several dozens of experts in the field of translation history, the book is a result of the FIT’s long-term efforts in compiling a general history of translation. The book outlines the historical contribution made by translators in the areas of the invention of alphabets, formation of national languages, development of national literature, dissemination of technological expertise, power relations, spread of religions and cultural values, as well as lexicology. It also makes special note of the significant role played by interpreters. The book features a translator-centric approach, with rich content and fresh research horizons, as well as cross-disciplinary borrowings. However, it lacks a more detailed picture of individual translators and translation history outside of Europe. It is believed that there is potential to tap in the field of translator-centric studies of translation history.