Uncovering the Norms of Subtitling Taboo Language Into Arabic: Two and a Half Men From Past to Present
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17507/jltr.1506.11Keywords:
audio-visual translation, taboo language, norms, translation strategiesAbstract
Subtitling of obscene language has been the subject of extensive study in the field of audio-visual translation. Nevertheless, most studies have primarily focused on collecting quantitative and qualitative data concerning translation strategies, often overlooking the critical dimension of subtitling norms. Attempting to discern these norms presents substantial methodological challenges, as they are not readily observable. This research addresses this significant gap by meticulously observing and analyzing the norms in English-to-Arabic subtitling of taboo language within a corpus of TV episodes subtitled by independent translators on DVDs spanning the years 2003 to 2015. Through this investigation, we propose a novel methodology for comprehending the dynamic nature of translation norms and their evolution over time. Our analysis provides valuable insights into the prevalent subtitling strategies employed during two distinct historical periods, specifically 2003 and 2015. Furthermore, this research endeavors to establish a plausible norm for subtitling taboo language in the context of English-to-Arabic translation within the specified timeframes. The findings of this study not only enrich the field of audiovisual translation academically but also offer practical insights that empower practitioners with a deeper understanding of the prevailing subtitling norms. This knowledge equips them to make informed decisions during the subtitling process, ultimately enhancing the accessibility and cultural resonance of audiovisual content on a global scale.
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