Module 2: Drama Translation 

Module Aim

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the main principles and challenges of drama translation. The module focuses on the translation of plays as both literary texts and performance scripts. Students will learn how to translate dialogue, preserve character voice, maintain dramatic tension, and make translated lines natural and performable on stage.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, students will be able to:

• define drama translation and explain its specific features;

• identify the main challenges in translating plays and theatrical texts;

• analyze dialogue, rhythm, pauses, and character voice in dramatic texts;

• apply translation strategies that improve speakability and performability;

• adapt cultural references while preserving dramatic effect;

• produce a translated dramatic dialogue with commentary on translation choices.

Topics Covered

1. Introduction to Drama Translation

   • drama as a literary text and performance text

   • speakability and performability

   • accuracy vs natural stage dialogue

2. Dialogue, Rhythm, and Character Voice

   • rhythm and pace

   • pauses and interruptions

   • register, emotion, and character identity

3. Staging, Cultural Adaptation, and Dramatic Tension

   • stage directions and performance context

   • adaptation of cultural references

   • preserving tension, irony, conflict, and subtext

Literature

1. Venuti L. Teaching Translation: Programs, Courses, Pedagogies. - London : Routledge, 2017. - 320 p.

2. Baker M., Saldanha G. Routledge Encyclopedia of Translation Studies. - 3rd ed. - London : Routledge, 2019. - 768 p.

3. Landers C. E. Literary Translation: A Practical Guide. - Clevedon : Multilingual Matters, 2001. - 219 p.

4. Steiner G. Translation: The Land of the Bilingual. - București : Editura Universitaria, 2008. - 191 p.

5. Seleskovitch D., Lederer M. A Systematic Approach to Teaching Interpretation. - Washington, DC : Library of Congress, 1995. - 252 p. - ISBN 0-916883-13-2.

6. Сыздық Р. С. Сөз құдіреті. - Алматы : Санат, 1997. - 256 б.

7. Алдашева А. А. Көркем аударма теориясы. - Алматы : Қазақ университеті, 2010. - 240 б.