Imitation as translation : from Western theories of parody to Japanese postmodern pastiches
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Perspectives: Studies in Translation Theory and Practice
Publication Date
2017
Volume
25
Issue
2
First Page
214
Last Page
226
Publisher
Routledge
Keywords
Imitation, manga, parody, pastiche, adaptation
Abstract
After critically reviewing the divisions of imitation as proposed by Dryden and Genette, among others, the author discusses the evolution of this concept, from its origins to its latest development in modern England. His aim is to build an objective model for analyzing imitation as a form of translation. He then analyzes a case study from East Asia: Japanese manga imitations of the Chinese novel The Journey to the West, in particular Minekura Kazuya’s 1997–2002 Journey to the Extreme (Gensōmaden Saiyūki). The author seeks to show how the changes made by the manga artists to the plot and characters exemplify ways in which imitations function in a new context. The article ends with some historical reflections on the position of imitation in translation theory and practice, while relating it to the contemporary context. It is hoped that the discussion will contribute to dispelling the misunderstandings and prejudice towards imitation, at the same time encouraging renewed attention to this old concept.
DOI
10.1080/0907676X.2016.1213305
Print ISSN
0907676X
E-ISSN
17476623
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2016 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis group. Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Chan, L. T.-H. (2017). Imitation as translation: From Western theories of parody to Japanese postmodern pastiches. Perspectives: Studies in Translation Theory and Practice, 25(2), 214-226. doi: 10.1080/0907676X.2016.1213305