Abstract

The paper discusses the cultural connotation and translation of English proverbs in three aspects of language, culture and translation. English proverbs are the crystal of the cultural product of the English nations for thousands of years with rich and profound cultural connotation. The translation of English proverbs should be faithful to transmitting their cultural information. Thus the paper puts forward several basic principles and methods.

This paper is divided into three parts: the first part studies the cultural background of English proverbs and introduces respectively from four perspectives including historical tradition, natural environment, manners and customs as well as religion; the second part discusses the translation methods of English proverbs consisted of literal translation, free translation, corresponding translation and literal combined free translation; the third part presents some considerations in the translation.

Proverbs seem simple, but translating proverbs also needs further consideration; otherwise translation and original text have variance when seemingly in harmony resulting in the unfaithful transmission of information, which requires each translator to have rich and deep knowledge background. They should not only master the language but also thoroughly understand the culture so as to translate better.

Key Words: English Proverbs; Culture; Translation

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Introduction.2

1. Cultural Connotation of English Proverbs.2

1.1 Historical Tradition3

1.2 Natural Environment 4

1.3 Manners and Customs..5

2. Translation Methods of English Proverbs. 5

2.1 Literal Translation..5

2.2 Free Translation..7

2.3 Corresponding Translation.8

2.4 Literal Combined Free Translation9

3. Considerations in the Translation of English Proverbs.. 9

3.1 Don’t Translate Without Real Understanding . 9

3.2 Maintain the Artistry of Proverb Language10

3.3 Notice Colloquial Features.10

3.4 Adopt Rhetoric Means10

4. Conclusion..12

References