Deconstruction and Reconstruction: An Analysis of the Power Discourse in the Translation of Chinese Classics from a Postcolonial Perspective

Yujie Xu; Chunyang Lin

doi:10.63313/LLCS.9098

Authors

Yujie Xu School of Foreign Languages, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Jiangsu Province, 223000, China Author
Chunyang Lin School of Foreign Languages, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Jiangsu Province, 223000, China Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63313/LLCS.9098

Keywords:

Postcolonial theory, Translation of Chinese classics, Power discourse, Cultural negotiation, Alienated translation

Abstract

This paper draws on postcolonial theory to analyze the mechanisms of power discourse in the translation of Chinese classics. It argues that traditional translation harbors a deep-seated "Western-centrism," diluting or distorting the essence of traditional Chinese culture. A one-way cultural communication ap-proach is undesirable and unworkable. Postcolonial theory, based on its dis-mantling of the discourse of "Orientalism," plays a crucial role in exposing the inequality of cultural power underlying cultural translation. On this basis, it proposes the possibility of reconstructing translation through "cultural negotia-tion." Empirical research demonstrates that translation guided by alienating translation, using multiple perspectives and approaches, and driven by digital translation methods is an effective way to resist cultural hegemony. This ap-proach allows for the translation and dissemination of Chinese culture abroad on an equal footing. New theoretical and practical approaches are offered for this purpose.

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