Translating Minority Culture Texts into Dominant Cultures: A Case Study from Catalonia

Abstract

This study explores the challenges and implications of translating texts from minority cultures into dominant cultures, with a specific focus on a case study from Catalonia. The translation of non-canonized texts from minority cultures into hegemonic contexts involves navigating complex cultural, linguistic, and political landscapes. By examining this process through the lens of Catalonia, a region with a rich but often marginalized cultural heritage, the study sheds light on the broader dynamics of cultural exchange and representation in translation.

Catalonia, a region with a distinct language and cultural identity, offers a unique setting for exploring the translation of minority texts into dominant cultures. The region’s literary works, often written in Catalan, face the challenge of reaching wider audiences in dominant cultural contexts, where translations can play a crucial role in broadening the impact and appreciation of minority literature. This study investigates the translation process of non-canonized Catalan texts into Spanish and other dominant languages, focusing on the strategies employed and the outcomes achieved.

The research employs a case study approach, analyzing specific examples of Catalan texts that have been translated into hegemonic languages. The methodology includes a comparative analysis of the source texts and their translations, interviews with translators, and a review of reception and impact in the target cultures. This multi-faceted approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the translation process and its effects on cultural representation.

The study identifies several key challenges faced in the translation of minority texts. One significant challenge is the preservation of cultural nuances and identities in the translated text. Translators often grapple with the tension between maintaining the integrity of the original work and adapting it for a different cultural context. This tension can lead to compromises that impact how the minority culture is represented and perceived in the dominant culture.