Deconstruction and Translation

by Kathleen Davis

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781900650281
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	07/01/2001
Series:	Translation Theories Explored
Pages:	126
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

Kathleen Davis

Table of Contents

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