Contents

Acknowledgments

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Background and Significance of the Study-1

1.2 Structure of the Thesis-1

Chapter Two Literature Review-3

2.1 Introduction to Skopos Theory-3

2.2 Previous Studies on Subtitle Translation-4

2.3 The Relationship between Skopos Theory and Subtitle Translation-5

Chapter Three Analysis on Subtitle Translation of Gossip Girl from Skopos Theory-7

3.1 Introduction to Gossip Girl-7

3.2 Features of Subtitle Translation in Gossip Girl-7

3.3 Translation Methods-8

3.3.1 Literal Translation-9

3.3.2 Free Translation-10

Chapter Four Conclusion-13

References-14

Abstract

TV series are playing a quite important role as a carrier of culture during the process of transmission. The recommendation of American series makes Chinese know and experience American’s economy, politics, culture and even their daily life. As a matter of fact, subtitling is an indispensable part of TV series, which works in helping audience know and understand the conversation directly so that audience can enjoy them accessibly. However, due to the limitation of time, space and specific context, subtitle translation is a hard challenge to conquer which stipulates high standards on translator and translation methods. Under this circumstance, this thesis studies the translation from the perspective of skopos theory, which has practical significance and time value.

This thesis taking Gossip Girl as an example analyzes the embodiment and application of three rules of skopos theory in subtitle translation, and presents two applicable translation methods: literal translation and free translation, aiming at providing experience and references to subtitle translators.

Keywords: skopos theory; subtitle translation; Gossip Girl