ENGL 233 : Introduction to Translation
American University of Beirut
Department of English
Course description:
ENGL 233 is a course in the language section of the Department of English that familiarizes the student with basic translation theories and offers hands-on practice in the development of basic translation skills using a variety of cultural heritage texts from Arabic to English. The focus of the texts changes from semester to semester.
Emphasis in the course will be placed on analyzing the style, spirit and cultural contexts of the texts. Throughout the term, we will examine different theories of translation and apply them in hands-on activities and we will assess the quality and the approach taken by historical translators. Translation, it might be said, is the most intense form of reading and analysis, and an emphasis will be placed throughout the semester on reflective analysis and revision throughout the translation process.
Students should already be able to read Arabic texts with ease. If students have a command of other languages, they will be encouraged to use them. Written work will be done in English, and some in WordPress format. Students should be willing to write in a public, open format.
This course counts as an English elective, a Humanities course and/or three credits toward the 15 cr minor in translation.
Course materials:
The reading for the course will be distributed via this site and in a packet for purchase.
Learning outcomes:
Over the semester, students will
- be introduced to Arabic cultural heritage texts in a variety of genres and their historical context;
- become acquainted with the structures, diction and style employed in a variety of translated excerpts of heritage texts;
- do basic research to elucidate problems of a historical and cultural distance using reliable linguistic resources;
- able to identify specific problems associated with the translation of sample literary texts - PLO 3;
- revise the translation of those texts - PLO 4;
- evaluate translated literary texts following a number of different criteria - PLO 4;
- carry out a research project on one of the course texts - PLO 5;
- learn to make a blog-portfolio of what they learned about translation - PLO 6.
The Language Program Learning Outcomes can be found here.
Assessment:
Assignments 35%
Regular assignments will be posted on the Requirements page of this site. Students are required to check the timing of their assignments and finish them on time. Late penalties apply.
In-class reflections: 20%
There will be two announced, graded, in-class writing assignments based on a blind selection of passages by authors we have studied. Students will be given an opportunity to revise this assignment as a blog posting.
Group Presentations 10%
Individual Project 25%
A final individual project in WordPress will be required.
Attendance and Participation 10%
Attendance and participation in class will be an essential part of the final grade. Attendance means that you are present and that you bring your readings. Class participation means that you come prepared to discuss the materials, that you speak up when you have something relevant to say and that you are respectful of all students’ desire to speak. If you do not attend regularly you should also expect a low participation grade. The same is true if you do not bring your books or if you regularly arrive late.
Attendance Policy:
The course is based on regular, progressive exercises. It is required for students to attend. A maximum of six absence in the semester is allowed. After this point, students will be removed from the class.
Course policies:
- Phones should not ring in class. You should not text in class.
- If you must leave class early, inform me, sit by the door and leave quietly.
- If you know that you have to miss class, please inform the instructor ahead of time, and preferably in writing. Staying in communication is the key.
- Students should bring their reading, paper, and a pen or pencil to class.
- Devices are allowed in class, except in the case of in-class assessment.
- Excused absences must come from AUH, and are subject to verification.
Academic integrity and honesty are central components of a student’s education. Ethical conduct maintained in an academic context will be taken eventually into a student’s professional career. Academic honesty is essential to a community of scholars searching for and learning to seek the truth. Anything less than total commitment to honesty undermines the efforts of the entire academic community. Both students and faculty are responsible for ensuring the academic integrity of the University.
You should be familiar with the AUB Student Code of Conduct including what happens in the case of infraction.
This class has a combination of in-class and out-of-class assessment opportunities. Your work on both should be your own. For group projects, you should provide me with a breakdown of what team members did what.