Transnation, Transculturation and Translation in East Asia

This project sets out to uncover the complex and dynamic cultural interactions across East Asia by examining a diverse array of literary texts written and/or translated in Chinese, Japanese, and English. Through an in-depth analysis of these works, the project aims to highlight the critical role of literary translation, positioning it not merely as a tool for linguistic transformation but as a vital medium for sustaining and promoting both literary creation and cultural exchange on a global scale.

By tracing the intricate networks of influence that have shaped the textual history in East Asia, this research seeks to bring to light the interwoven nature of East Asian literatures. It will showcase how literature transcends borders, generating dialogues between cultures and contributing to a deeper understanding of shared and divergent worldviews. This project, therefore, provides a strong foundation for enhancing the status of literary translation—an often underappreciated but indispensable practice that plays a key role in the circulation of ideas and narratives across cultures.

Moreover, this study opens new avenues for analyzing and theorizing within the fields of comparative literature and translation studies, offering fresh insights into how texts and their meanings evolve as they traverse languages, time periods, and geographical regions. By situating East Asian literary exchanges within a broader theoretical framework, this project aspires to contribute not only to the field of East Asian studies but also to the humanities as a whole, promoting cross-cultural understanding, enriching global literary traditions, and fostering new approaches to the study of language, literature, and culture.

• Dr Jindan Ni
  

Ongoing