Studying at York
Italian to English Translation: Methodology and Practice - LAN00061H
Module summary
This module introduces core principles and practices of translation from Italian into English. You will learn about different types of translation from a real-world context, discuss some of the issues relevant to the profession, and have the opportunity to engage with a range of texts, reflecting on your own output and exploring the specificities of this language combination.
Related modules
Pre-requisite module
Italian Language and Cultures: Advanced
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2024-25 |
Module aims
This module aims to:
- introduce you to key concepts, practices and issues in translation
- explore some of the issues specific to translation from Italian into British English
- develop the ability to engage with difficult concepts
- guide you to translate a variety of texts and become a reflective practitioner
- develop skills in conducting a pre-translation analysis of written Italian texts and other content, and producing a commentary
- develop the ability to defend translation decisions
Module learning outcomes
By the end of this module you should be able to:
- discuss issues relating to translation generally and/or from Italian into English specifically
- reflect critically on your translation production, referencing concepts and terminology specific to Translation Studies
- adopt a clear methodological approach to translation, including strategic decision-making, research, revision and proofing
- comment critically on the translation output of others, giving valid bases for your assertions
Module content
Lecture topics include: Issues in translation; Contexts of translation (e.g. journalistic, technical, literary); Translation quality; Perceptions of translation; Technology and the translator; Interpreting.
Follow-up seminars will explore lecture topics and key issues in greater depth. Practical seminars will provide opportunity for real-world translation tasks across a wide variety of text types and genres (including journalistic texts, literature, website, tourist guide, recipe, public information booklet, etc.), while working to compile the translation portfolio (3 translations, with accompanying commentary) during the course of the module.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) | 40 |
| Essay/coursework | 60 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Module feedback
Formative feedback
Oral commentary and dialogue within class on oral and written language work. Given immediately both to individuals and to group.
Written comments and mark on University scale given to individual students for practice translations, with opportunity for individual consultation. The translations will be returned to students within two weeks of the seminar.
Model answers may be given for class exercise/past exam papers, with class discussion of difficulties.
Summative feedback
Written feedback to be provided within the university mandated time limit.
Indicative reading
Baker, M. (2011). In Other Words. London: Routledge.
Cragie, S., Higgins, I, Hervey, S. & Gambarotta, P. (2016). Thinking Italian Translation. Oxon: Routledge, 2nd edition.
Hatim, B., & Munday, J. (2004). Translation: An Advanced Resource Book. London: Routledge.
Munday, J. (2009). The Routledge Companion to Translation Studies. London: Routledge.
Munday, J. (2016). Introducing Translation Studies: Theories and Applications. Oxon: Routledge, 4th edition.
Newmark, P. (1988). A Textbook of Translation. New York: Prentice-Hall International.
Taylor, C. (1998). Language to Language: A Practical and Theoretical Guide for Italian/English Translators. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.