Translating the South Korean Novel Little Women : An Analysis of the Political Language of Women

Eunyoung, H. (2021). Translating the South Korean Novel Little Women : An Analysis of the Political Language of Women. Feminism and Korean Literature, (54), 339-362, https://doi.org/10.15686/fkl.2021..54.339

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Abstract

An overwhelming amount of translated literature has been published, and novels constitute the majority of translated literature. Indeed, the number of translations of certain works is gradually increasing, and in this context, considering readers is controversial. A literary work can be translated completed differently for readers according to each translator’s approach. Additionally, it is sometimes necessary to rework translations in response to changing social conditions. Taking this into account, it is necessary to conduct various analyses of a single work. Accordingly, this study analyzes three published translations of Louisa May Alcott’s novel Little Women. The study aims to examine how these feminist translations of the novel were produced. The study found that femininity was excessively emphasized in some translations. Of course, translations that feature femininity more strongly than the original text cannot be said to be mistranslations. However, in cases where more appropriate expressions may have been available, it is necessary to question the clear emphasis on femininity in the translation. Language continually changes alongside society. Everchanging and diverse literary translations serve the important function of reflecting society. Therefore, translators should properly reflect changing social conditions in their translations.

keywords: Little Women, Louisa May Alcott, women’s language, appellation, retranslation, rewriting, 『작은 아씨들』, 루이자 메이 올컷, 여성어, 호칭, 재번역, 다시쓰기

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Article Contents

No.54

Translating the South Korean Novel Little Women : An Analysis of the Political Language of Women

Abstract

Reference

Feminism and Korean Literature