1st Edition

Deconstruction and Translation

By Kathleen Davis Copyright 2001
    126 Pages
    by Routledge

    258 Pages
    by Routledge

    Deconstruction and Translation explains ways in which many practical and theoretical problems of translation can be rethought in the light of insights from the French philosopher Jacques Derrida. If there is no one origin, no transcendent meaning, and thus no stable source text, we can no longer talk of translation as meaning transfer or as passive reproduction. Kathleen Davis instead refers to the translator's freedom and individual responsibility. Her survey of this complex field begins from an analysis of the proper name as a model for the problem of signification and explains revised concepts of limits, singularity, generality, definitions of text, writing, iterability, meaning and intention. The implications for translation theory are then elaborated, complicating the desire for translatability and incorporating sharp critique of linguistic and communicative approaches to translation. The practical import of this approach is shown in analyses of the ways Derrida has been translated into English. In all, the text offers orientation and guidance through some of the most conceptually demanding and rewarding fields of contemporary translation theory.

    Acknowledgements

     

    Introduction

     

    Section I: Translatability and Untranslatability

     

    Chapter 1: Différance

     

    Difference at the Origin

    Saussure and Differences

    The difference of différance

    Conclusion

     

    Chapter 2: The Limit

     

    Singularity and Generality

    Text

    Writing

    Conclusion

     

    Chapter 3: Iterability

     

    Stability and Instability

    The Supplement

    Sur-vival

    Conclusion: Institutions, Kingdoms, and Property

     

    Section II: Implications for Translation Theory

     

    Introduction

     

    Chapter 4: Unloading Terms

     

    Decision

    Intention

    Communication

    Conclusion

     

    Chapter 5: Translating Derrida

     

    Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak

    Alan Bass

    Geoff Bennington and Ian McLeod

    'The Measure of Translation Effects'

    Conclusion

     

    Chapter 6: Response and Responsibility

     

    Aporias

    'Relevant' Translation

    'Mercy Seasons Justice'

    Conclusion

     

    References

    Index

    Biography

    Kathleen Davis