Reflections on the translation of cultural and linguistic elements in a Xitsonga one-act play called Jim Xilovekelo
Date
2016
Authors
Maluleke, Khazamula Simon
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Abstract
The aim of this research report is to analyse how the Xitsonga original and the English
translation of the play by CTD Marivate, Jim Xilovekelo (1965) can be translated in terms of
culture-specific elements as reflected through dialogue. The research project examines the
notion of the two basic translation strategies of domestication and foreignization in relation to
both linguistic and culture-bound elements. A translation of the play into English forms the
basis of the research, with detailed comments and annotations. The overall approach to the
translation of the play was to retain the foreignness and style of the original text, taking into
account the different languages and language varieties that feature in the play, such IsiZulu,
Sesotho, Xitsonga, English, Fanakalo and Tsotsitaal. These all form part of South African
urban heterogeneous culture in both the source and target texts. Retaining these culturallinguistic
elements within the target text ensures that the style and features of the source text
are reflected in the target text.
Description
A research report submitted to the Faculty of Humanities, University of the Witwatersrand,
Johannesburg, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in
Translation
Johannesburg, 2016
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Citation
Maluleke, Khazamula Simon (2016) Reflections on the translation of cultural and linguistic elements in a Xitsonga one-act play called Jim Xilovekelo, University of the Witwatersrand,
Johannesburg, <http://hdl.handle.net/10539/21818>