On Qian Zhongshu’s Conceptualization of Translation

Chang, Chung-An is an Associate Professor of English-Chinese Translation and Interpreting at the Department of English Language and Literature at Soochow University in Taipei. His teaching and research interests include translation and interpreting pedagogy, translation theory, and East-West cross-cultural studies. He has published scholarly articles in academic journals both in Taiwan and internationally.

Qian Zhongshu, arguably the most erudite scholar in modern China and a towering figure in bringing China and the West together in cross-cultural understanding, has offered his brilliant insights on translation and translation theory based on his deep understanding of the Chinese tradition as well as Western culture. Chang’s book,On Qian Zhongshu’s Conceptualization of Translation, provides a much-needed and detailed discussion of Qian’s conceptualization of translation as distinct from either the predominant Western views or traditional Chinese commentaries, and offers rich materials for further exploration. This book will be of interest to scholars and students in translation studies, comparative and world literature, and more widely in literary and cultural studies in general.--------Zhang Longxi, author of A History of Chinese Literature (Routledge 2023) and World Literature as Discovery: Expanding the World Literary Canon (Routledge 2024)This insightful book offers a critical evaluation of Qian Zhongshu’s seminal contributions to translation studies, elucidating his unique synthesis of Eastern and Western literary traditions. It examines his innovative theoretical concepts, such as huajing, and his skillful engagement with prevailing translation tenets within the socio-political context of 20th-century China. Dr. Chang demonstrates how Qian’s insights foster a deeper understanding of translation as a dynamic, cross-cultural dialogue, facilitating global literary integration. Essential for scholars and enthusiasts, this work champions a nuanced, integrated approach to understanding the transformative power of translation.---Shan, Te-Hsing. Distinguished Research Fellow, Institute of European and American Studies, Academia Sinica

• 1: Bridging the Cultures of the East and the West from Worlds Apart 2. The Complexity of Xin: Qian’s Contribution to Key Debates in Chinese Translation History Seen through the Lens of Hermeneutics 3. The Art of Translation: Huajing 4. "Bridging the Gap between the Two Sides": Qian’s Literary and Translation Criticism in the Era of Crisis5. Translation and World Literature