A Study on the Translation of Korean Classical Novels into Modern Language

Cho, Hyun Woo

doi:10.20516/classic.2021.54.47

This article examines how classical novels can be appreciated by modern readers when translated into modern language. Accordingly, I reviewed the renowned idea that modern readers would enjoy classical novels if they were translated into readable text. In Chapter 2, I examined the meaning of increased readability by citing examples of Korean classics translated into modern language. Increasing readability often means that it is written to easily read and understand, but it is based on the idea that complete comprehension is possible in a certain way, that is, by reading silently. In Chapter 3, I discussed the important elements that should be translated in classical novels. I believed that translations into modern language should not be simply changes from one element to another within the same language. The background for this idea is the possibility of a one-to-one response between any word from the original language and the translation into the receiving language. According to Jakobson, translation of Korean classics has a complex nature with all the characteristics of three kinds of translation: intralingual translation, interlingual translation, and intersemiotic translation. These characteristics are attributed to the unique mediums of Korean classical novels and the complexity of their enjoyment. Therefore, if the translation of a Korean classic is limited to the communication of its exact meaning, this makes it impossible to complete without misinterpreting the text. Translation is the transfer of a particular type of language from a specific situation for a unique purpose. Therefore, the question should be, is a good translation of a classical Korean novel done appropriately to suit its context, purpose, or language? This view affirms the existence of various good quality textual translations that can arise depending on how well they serve their purpose, rather than believing that there is a particular translation that is most ideal for a specific text. Eventually, the main issue at this stage is the need for a theory on the translation of Korean classical novels. In addition to translation, the theory should be a combination of semiotics, discourse theory, and media theory.

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