The following text discusses translation studies.
Lawrence Venuti distinguishes between "domesticating" and "foreignizing" translation strategies. Domesticating translations adapt source texts to target culture norms, producing fluent, transparent prose. Foreignizing translations preserve linguistic and cultural strangeness, foregrounding the text's foreign origins. Neither approach is inherently superior; the choice depends on purposes, audiences, and the specific dynamics between source and target cultures.
Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?
It presents two contrasting approaches and notes the contextual nature of choosing between them.
It argues that domesticating translation is universally preferable.
It provides step-by-step instructions for translating documents.
It traces the historical development of translation theory.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The text presents domesticating and foreignizing approaches, noting that choice depends on context.
- Evidence: The text presents options: "domesticating... adapt source texts," "Foreignizing... preserve... strangeness." It notes context: "Neither approach is inherently superior; the choice depends on purposes."
- Reasoning: The structure contrasts two methods and concludes that the "right" one depends on the situation.
- Conclusion: This matches "presents two contrasting approaches and notes the contextual nature."
💡 Strategy: Identify Contrast (Domestic vs. Foreign) and Resolution (Context).
Choice B is incorrect because neither is deemed superior. Choice C is incorrect because instructions aren't given. Choice D is incorrect because history isn't traced.