Intro to Translation and Interpretation Theory (TRS 201) - BMCC

Forms are an essential part of our daily lives, as they serve as a means of communication and record-keeping across various domains, including employment, education, healthcare, and government services. Translating forms accurately and effectively is crucial to ensure that individuals can access these services and provide the necessary information in their native language. Translating forms between Spanish and English presents several challenges, as differences in linguistic structure, cultural norms, and administrative terminology can impact the translation process. Forms such as job applications, requests for vital certificates, and various other official documents require a high level of precision and attention to detail to maintain the integrity of the information being conveyed. In this episode, we'll explore the various linguistic and cultural differences that must be considered when translating forms between Spanish and English, as well as the legal and administrative terminology that is often encountered in these documents. We will also discuss effective translation strategies, formatting and layout considerations, and tools and resources that can be helpful in the translation process.

In this episode, for the Problems, Tools, & Techniques section of the module, I talk about non-equivalence and false cognates in academic and medical translation. I discuss the challenges that these issues pose to translators working in these specialized fields and explore strategies to overcome them. By understanding and addressing non-equivalence and false cognates, we can improve the accuracy and effectiveness of our translations in academic and medical contexts.

As language professionals, it's crucial to understand the complexities and challenges that arise when working with two distinct languages. In this episode, we'll focus on the issues that can arise due to differences in vocabulary and meaning between Spanish and English and explore the concept of semantic mapping as a technique to address these challenges.

Today we’re going to discuss a fascinating historical topic: “The Black Legend and Translation in the 17th and 18th Centuries.” Understanding the history of translation is essential for us as future translators and interpreters, as it provides valuable context for the challenges and responsibilities we face. The term “The Black Legend” refers to a set of negative stereotypes about Spain and its colonies that emerged in 16th-century Europe. This phenomenon, fueled by the writings and art of Spain’s European rivals, portrayed the Spanish as cruel, greedy, and fanatical. The spread of these ideas was heavily reliant on the work of translators and interpreters, who played a crucial role in shaping the cross-cultural understanding of their time. In this short episode, we’ll explore the origins and development of The Black Legend, highlighting the importance of translation in its dissemination. We’ll also examine the impact of The Black Legend on Spain and its colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries, and how it influenced translation practices during that period.