‘A corpus-based research in the English translations of Marguerite Duras’ Le Ravissement de Lol V Stein.’ (provisional title)
Supervisors: Dr Gabriela Saldanha and Professor Michael Toolan
The aim of my research is to study punctuation shifts in the English translations of Marguerite Duras’ novel Le Ravissement de Lol V Stein with the help of corpus tools.
The goal of this thesis is to demonstrate how punctuation shifts in translation may affect salient traits of Duras’ literary style. The thesis also explores whether the presence of stylistic traits belonging to the translator interferes with the author’s style and, if so, to what extent. The use of corpus tools such as Wordsmith Tools and ParaConc can facilitate the process of comparison between originals and translations and offer some insight into the potential stylistic features that can be attributed to the translator’s individual style. This research, also, highlights aspects of the translators’ backgrounds as well as publishing strategies which may affect their stylistic choices.
Prior to starting this project, I completed a BA in English Culture & Language Studies and an MA in English at the University of Kent at Canterbury. Also, I have an MA in Comparative Literature from the University College London. I work as a freelance translator for the Greek Consulate in London and for various multilingual projects.