Abstract：Ah Q Zheng Zhuan is one of Lu Xun’s masterpieces. It has been translated into many languages, one of them is the English version by Lyell. However, the obscurity of the language in the original determines the difficulty of its translation. The style and quality of the target text are effected, to a large extent, by the interpretation of the source text, the choice of cultural standpoint and the motivation in translation. Thus, the translator’s subjectivity plays a very important role in the process of translation of Ah Q Zheng Zhuan. This thesis defines and explains the translator’s subjectivity and makes a thorough inquiry of the manifestation of Lyell’s subjectivity as well as the reason for which some translation strategies were adopted by Leyll(in comparison with Yang Xianyi & Gladys Yang’s version). This thesis concludes that proper subjectivity in the process of translation makes it more readable for the target readers. That explains why Lyell’s version enjoys so much popularity in Western countries.

Keywords:  Ah Q Zheng Zhuan  William A. Lyell  Translator’s subjectivity

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 An Introduction to Lu Xun and His Works-1

1.2 An Introduction to Ah Q Zheng Zhuan-1

1.3 An Introduction to William A. Lyell....2

Chapter Two Translator’s Subjectivity-3

2.1 Definition of Translator’s Subjectivity-3

2.2 Connotations of the Translator’s Subjectivity-3

2.2.1 Interpretation of the Source Text-3

2.2.2 Cultural Standpoint-3

2.2.3 Motivation in Translation-4

2.3 Creative Treason-4

Chapter Three Lyell’s Subjectivity in Translating Ah Q Zheng Zhuan-7

3.1 The Reason for the Obscurity of Ah Q Zheng Zhuan-7

3.2 Manifestation of Lyell’s Subjectivity in Translating Ah Q Zheng Zhuan-7

3.2.1 Wording and Expressing-7

3.2.2 Immitation of the Original Style-9

3.2.3 Annotation of Cultural Background-11

Chapter Four Conclusion-13

References-14