Translation, Humour and Literature

An especially welcome addition to the field of translation studies ... The style and tone of the collection is enjoyable and refreshing as well, thus perfectly complementing the subject matter ... The mere fact that Translation, Humour and Literature is a pioneer in its field might deem it worthy of attention, [but] this diverse and insightful collection proves itself useful and informative on its own right to those interested either in translation or humor studies, or who work as translators themselves. -- Brigitta Hudácskó, University of Debrecen, Hungary * Hungarian Journal of English and American Studies *
This book significantly advances both translation studies and humour scholarship. Delia Chiaro has assembled a unique array of experts to reflect on the challenges of translating humour. Volume one is replete with examples and practical advice from masterly translators but it is also that rare thing - a scholarly book about humour that is itself humorous. It instructs while it entertains. From Michael Ewans' recapturing of Aristophanic satire's original shock-value and Marguerite Wells' lively account of matching the Japanese tally of 27 synonyms for "prostitute", to the insights afforded by Christie Davies' "translations" of Scottish religious jokes into other varieties of English and Walter Redfern's self-discoveries in the process of creating French and Spanish versions of a poem to his father, this book illuminates both the nature of translation and of humour. The second volume will be eagerly awaited. -- Jessica Milner Davis, Honorary Associate, School of Letters, Art and Media, University of Sydney, Australia