Research on the English Translation of The Book of Songs from the Perspective of Reception Aesthetics: A Case Study of Xiao Ya·Cai Wei

Abstract

The English translation of the Chinese classic The Book of Songs serves as an important bridge for cultural exchange between China and the West, profoundly influencing the dissemination of Chinese culture abroad. This paper explores how to improve the quality of English translations of The Book of Songs by considering reader reception, using the widely circulated excerpt Xiao Ya · Cai Wei as a case study. Employing a comparative analysis of the two classic translations by the well-known Chinese translator Xu Yuanchong and the renowned British translator James Legge, this study found the two translations have their respective pros and cons. To improve translation quality for future international dissemination of Chinese culture, a form of collaborative translation by Chinese and English-speaking translators is recommended.