Senior Seminar in Comparative Literature

Consider these clichés: Poetry is what gets lost in translation. Reading literature in translation is like kissing your mother through a veil. Translation is the art of failure. The dangers of translation lie on both sides of a tightrope: literal fidelity and creative betrayal. Discussions about translation often use these and similar binaries and metaphors to depict translation as derivative. In this seminar we will integrate theory and practice to develop a renewed appreciation for the complicated task of the translator. We will read theoretical texts that have offered different answers to difficult questions about translation, from 19th century Romantic discourse on translation and nationalism, theological debates, structuralist and post-structuralist analyses, the ‘cultural turn’ in translation studies, as well as postcolonial and feminist critique. In addition, students will develop their own translation practice through workshops, peer editing, and group feedback. In doing so, this seminar is designed to have students gain a deeper understanding of important discussions in the field of translation studies, hone their skills as translators themselves, and reflect on the relationship between theory and praxis. Command of a second language (any language) is required.