The Gains and Losses in the Translation of Mu Dan Tingfrom the Communicative Perspective
Su Feng
Abstract: Over a century, the translation practices of Chinese classic Mu Dan Ting(《牡丹亭》)are of great value in shed of how Chinese traditional literature could be better introduced overseas.Among all the English versions, Xu Yuanchong and Xu Ming’s Dream in the Peony Pavilion is arelatively new and influential translated work built on the predecessors. The art of Xu’s translationhas reached a height with sublimity as its ultimate goal in the pursuit of literal "beauty". That is whatwe could learn from him. Admittedly, the reconstruction of the text has highlighted the main lineof the story, which is essential to reach the audience. But the overdoing of it, on the contrary, ledthe translation "in like a lion, out like a lamb". Therefore, concerning its integrity and literary valueof the original work, it is an undeniable loss. Moreover, the insufficiency in oversea publication,distribution, and dissemination made it even worse. These two weak points should be made up bythe followers. Nevertheless, Xu Yuanchong has contributed greatly through his translation. Based onhis work, this paper puts forward proposals on how to help Mu Dan Ting and other Chinese classicalliterary works go further and exert more influence in the world.
Key words:Mu Dan Ting; XuYuanchong: translation and introduction; dissemination; suggestions
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