Mapping the Norms of Translating Culture in the Saudi Context: A Quantitative/Qualitative Approach

Fawziah Ali Alshehri

Abstract


The aim of this paper is to map the norms of translating cultural references in the Saudi context. It also examines the impact of social changes on Saudi targets’ comprehension and approval of western cultural references. The research is based on Toury’s Norms (1995). A questionnaire is employed which allows the quantification of data and increases the likelihood that outcomes can be generalised. In this sense, Toury asserts that a norm is generalised when a phenomenon is more frequent. On the other hand, when it is less frequent, it is overlooked as a general norm and considered as rather resembling a minor group of people (1995, pp. 65-69). The findings suggest that translator’s lean towards applying source-oriented strategies when rendering cultural references. The study also highlights the contributing social factors that led to this notion. 


Keywords


Translation norms, social changes, professional translators, Saudi context

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References


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