Translator’s Adaptation and Choice in Hawkes’s Dream of the Red Chamber Translation

Abstract

This study investigates David Hawkes's English translation of A Dream of Red Mansions from the perspective of Ecological Translation Theory. Focusing on the "Translation Adaptation and Selection" framework, the research explores how translators make adaptive choices in cross-cultural literary translation to achieve optimal communicative effects. The theoretical foundation derives from Hu Gengshen's Ecological Translation Theory, particularly the principles of multi-dimensional adaptation and three-dimensional transformation. The methodology involves a systematic analysis of translation strategies across linguistic, cultural, and communicative dimensions, examining how these approaches facilitate effective cultural transmission while maintaining literary integrity. Key findings demonstrate that successful literary translation requires comprehensive adaptation to both the source text's ecological environment and the target readers' cultural context. The study reveals that translators must balance fidelity to the original with necessary modifications to ensure accessibility, employing various strategies to mediate between different linguistic systems and cultural frameworks. The research concludes that Ecological Translation Theory provides a valuable paradigm for understanding and guiding literary translation practice. The findings highlight the translator's crucial role as a cultural mediator and the importance of holistic adaptation in achieving effective cross-cultural communication. The study contributes to translation studies by demonstrating the practical application of ecological principles in literary translation and suggests directions for future research in this field.