Abstract：As the crystallization of human civilization and wisdom, proverbs exist in any kind of language and have especially become the essence of Chinese. Proverbs have formed its unique style throughout the long history and are widely used in varieties of occasions because they are short and effective. Chinese proverbs take a considerable proportion in Chinese classic literature and play a very important role in conveying meaning and diffusing culture. However, the differences of language and culture between English and Chinese make the translation of Chinese proverbs a tough task for translators. Nowadays, cultural exchange and communication between China and other countries have been increasingly strengthened. Under such background, the study of the translation of Chinese proverbs is of great importance . 

As one of the four great Chinese classical novels,  Shui Hu Zhuan is famous for its graphic language and abundant cultural connotation, so its translation needs further study. Nevertheless, the application of Chinese proverbs plays a crucial role in the original text, so the proper translation is required. The translation of Chinese proverbs matters not only the translation quality of Chinese classic literature, but also the further spread of Chinese culture.

Based on the theories of linguistics, rhetoric and translation studies, this thesis roughly analyzes the Chinese proverbs from the aspects of definition, source and rhetoric, probes into the principles and methods of translating proverbs which are based on the examples taken from the two different versions by Sydney Shapiro and Pearl Buck, and aims to judge their versions by means of comparison .

It is shown in the thesis that Pearl Buck puts particular emphasis on literal translation, trying to deliver the language feature and cultural specialty of the original text. However, literal translation doesn’t suit all proverbs, so some of her translation failed to achieve a good effect.  Sydney Shapiro tends to free translation which is easy to understand, but lost the original flavor of the proverbs in some details. Both versions have their own merits and defects.

Key Words：translation principle; method;  strategy; Chinese proverb

CONTENTS

摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction-1

1.1 Research Background of the Thesis-1

1.2 Introduction of Pearl Buck’s All Men are Brothers and Sidney Shapiro’s Outlaws of the Marsh-2

1.3 Significance of the Thesis-3

1.4 Research Methods of the Thesis-3

1.5 Structure of the Thesis-3

2. The Main Principles of translating Chinese proverbs-4

2.1 The Principle of Equivalence-4

2.1.1General Observations of the Equivalence Theory-4

2.1.2 The Application of the Equivalence Theory-4

2.2 Graphic Principle-6

2.3 Concise Principle-7

3 The Methods and Techniques of Proverbs Translation-8

3.1 The Methods of Translating Chinese proverbs.-8

3.1.1Literal Translation-8

3.1.2 Free Translation-8

3.1.3 Abridge Translation-9

3.1.4 The Combination of Literal Translation and Free Translation-10

3.2 The Techniques of Translating Proverbs-11

3.2.1 The General Classification of Chinese Proverbs-11

3.2.2 The Translating Techniques of Proverbs Containing Allusions-12

3.2.3 The Translation Techniques of Chinese Proverbs with Rhetoric-14

4 Conclusion-18

References-20

Acknowledgements-21