Subtitling humor - The analysis of selected translation techniques in subtitling elements containing humor

Table of Contents

Introduction

1. Translation and audiovisual translation

1.1. Subtitling

1.1.1. The semiotics of subtitling

1.1.2. The constraints of subtitling

1.2. The pragmatics of translation

1.2.1. Speech acts

1.2.2. Gricean maxims

1.2.3. Implicature and explicature

1.2.4. Presupposition

1.3. Relevance Theory and translation

1.3.1. Relevance Theory and pragmatics

1.3.2. Interpretive use vs. descriptive use

1.4. Covert translation vs. overt translation

1.5. Dynamic equivalence vs. formal equivalence

2. What is humor?

2.1. Forms of humor

2.1.1. Wordplay

2.1.2. Irony

2.1.3. Parody

2.2. Humor and Relevance Theory

2.3. Translating humor

2.3.1. The translatability of humor

2.3.2. Solutions to problems in translating humor

3. Translation techniques in subtitling elements containing humor

3.1. Preliminary considerations

3.1.1. Condensation

3.1.2. Inflectional condensation

3.1.3. Referencing

3.1.4. Decimation

3.1.5. Name deletion

3.1.6. Transposition/structural conversion

3.1.7. Modulation

3.1.8. Substitution

3.1.9. Paraphrase

3.1.10. Literal translation

3.1.11. Neologisms

3.1.12. Augmentation

3.2. Conclusion

Research Objectives and Themes

The primary objective of this thesis is to examine the process of translating humor in audiovisual media, specifically within the context of subtitling. The research focuses on the challenges posed by language- and culture-specific elements and evaluates how various translation techniques can effectively preserve the intended humorous effect while adhering to the technical constraints of subtitling, utilizing Relevance Theory as a theoretical framework.

• The semiotics and technical constraints of film subtitling.
• Pragmatic principles and Relevance Theory in translation.
• Categorization and forms of humor (wordplay, irony, parody).
• Evaluation of translation techniques such as condensation, decimation, and substitution.
• Analysis of humor translation in contemporary box-office comedies.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1. Translation and audiovisual translation: This chapter defines the core concepts of translation, provides a classification of audiovisual media, and explores the semiotic and technical constraints inherent in subtitling.

2. What is humor?: This section discusses the nature of humor, its various forms such as wordplay, irony, and parody, and examines the inherent challenges of translating humor within the framework of Relevance Theory.

3. Translation techniques in subtitling elements containing humor: This practical chapter analyzes specific translation techniques—including condensation, modulation, and neologisms—and illustrates their application using examples from selected popular comedy films.

Keywords

Audiovisual translation, Subtitling, Relevance Theory, Humor, Translation techniques, Condensation, Wordplay, Irony, Parody, Pragmatics, Semiotics, Language-specific elements, Culture-specific elements, Target-oriented translation, Translation strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this thesis?

The work investigates the complex process of translating humorous elements in movies into subtitles, focusing on how translators overcome linguistic and cultural barriers.

What are the main thematic areas covered?

The research explores audiovisual translation constraints, the pragmatics of humor, and specific translation techniques used to maintain comic effects.

What is the central research objective?

The goal is to evaluate which translation techniques best facilitate the audience's understanding of humor while adhering to technical screen limitations.

Which theoretical framework is employed?

The research primarily utilizes Relevance Theory to explain how audiences process information and how translators can minimize cognitive effort for the viewer.

What does the main body of the work address?

The main part of the paper provides a detailed taxonomy of translation techniques, such as condensation, substitution, and neologisms, supported by examples from films like Love Actually and Scary Movie 3.

Which keywords characterize this study?

Key terms include audiovisual translation, subtitling, humor, Relevance Theory, and translation techniques like condensation or paraphrasing.

How does the author define condensation in subtitles?

Condensation is described as the omission of redundant speech elements—such as repetitions or fillers—to ensure that the relevant message remains clear within strict time and space limitations.

What role does the "visual" play in humor translation?

The visual context is crucial, as non-verbal elements like gestures or screen action often compensate for omitted verbal information, helping the viewer arrive at the intended humor.