Chapter 1

Abstract

This chapter outlines the emergence and evolution of translation studies as a distinct academic discipline. Initially situated within language learning, comparative literature, and contrastive linguistics, translation was long viewed primarily as a pedagogical or literary tool. The formal establishment of translation studies owes much to James S. Holmes, who proposed both the name and a foundational structure for the field, dividing it into theoretical, descriptive, and applied branches. Since then, the discipline has expanded significantly in scope and complexity. Increasing interdisciplinarity has led to the incorporation of theories and methods from fields such as linguistics, cultural studies, sociology, and media studies, while translation studies has also developed its own theoretical frameworks. The concept of translation itself has widened to include diverse modes such as audiovisual translation and multimodal communication. This chapter charts these developments and sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the dynamic, multifaceted nature of translation studies today.

Video Introduction

Flashcards

Test your understanding of the foundational concepts within the chapter by using these flashcards.

Quiz

Test your understanding of this chapter with our multiple choice questions.

Research Questions

How does the professional translation market operate in your country? Is a postgraduate qualification a requirement for working as a professional translator? Investigate what professional translators’ associations exist.
How is the teaching of translation and interpreting structured in your own country? How many universities offer undergraduate degrees in the subject? How many postgraduate programmes are there? Is there a core content? How do the programmes differ? What theory is studied?
Investigate how research-based translation studies fits into the university system in your country. How many universities offer ‘translation studies’ (or similar) MA or doctoral programmes. In which university departments/faculties are they housed? What are the ‘primary’ and ‘secondary’ relationships to other disciplines? What do you conclude is the status of translation studies in your country?
Is translation studies research in your country centred mainly on the theory or the practice of translation? Why do you think this is so? How do they interrelate?
Look at the electronic resources mentioned in the Further Reading section. Familiarize yourself with each resource. Refer back to these resources as you progress throughout the book.

Main Issues of Translation Studies