INTERTEXTUALITY IN TRANSLATION: THEORETICAL INSIGHTS AND PRACTICAL APPROACHES
Keywords:
Intertextuality, translation studies, intertextual elements, cultural competence, source text (ST), target audience, adaptation, allusion, intertextual equivalence, paratextsAbstract
Intertextuality, the phenomenon whereby texts reference, echo, or draw upon other texts, creating layers of meaning that challenge both readers and translators. In translation practice, intertextual references require much more than a literal conversion of words: they demand a deep understanding of cultural, historical, and literary allusions embedded in a source text to produce a target text that resonates with the new audience. Intertextuality, the intricate interplay of texts through references, allusions, and structural echoes, presents unique challenges and opportunities in translation practice. This article explores the theoretical foundations of intertextuality in translation, drawing on seminal works by Julia Kristeva, Roland Barthes, and Gérard Genette, while offering practical approaches for translators to navigate its complexities. The study examines how intertextual elements - ranging from explicit quotations to implicit cultural allusions - require translators to balance fidelity to the source text (ST) with accessibility for the target audience. Through case studies of literary and non-literary translations, the article proposes strategies such as annotation, substitution, amplification, and creative adaptation to address cultural and linguistic barriers. The findings underscore the importance of cultural competence and contextual analysis in preserving the richness of intertextual connections. This article contributes to translation studies by bridging theoretical insights with actionable techniques, offering guidance for translators and scholars engaged in cross- cultural communication.
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