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Target
Vol. 23:2 (2011) ► pp.311–347
Discussion

In defence of polysystem theory

| Lingnan University, Hong Kong

This article revisits Itamar Even-Zohar’s polysystem theory, including its hypotheses on the position of translated literature and its relation with translation norms, and some of its basic assumptions and principles, such as the heterogeneity, dynamics and overlapping of systems, the quest for probabilistic laws, and objectivity and neutrality. Through reading Even-Zohar’s texts closely and tracing the later developments of the theory, it attempts to explore the complexities of the theory, and clear up some misunderstandings, citing examples from polysystem-inspired case studies. It also discusses the complications caused by the expansion made by Gideon Toury on the concept of “adequacy” and “acceptability”, presents a revised version of Even-Zohar’s hypothesis on the situations in which translated literature is likely to occupy a central position, and suggests ways in which polysystem theory can or should be rendered more intricate. It argues that polysystem theory and other cultural theories can be complementary and mutually enriching.

Keywords: polysystem theory, translated literature, norm, weak, adequacy, acceptability, binary opposition, heterogeneity, system, objectivity
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.The hypothesis on the position of translated literature
    • 2.1Value judgement?
    • 2.2Subjective or objective?
    • 2.3Self-perception—but of what?
    • 2.4Second hypothesis revised
    • 2.5Can polysystem theory explain it?
  • 3.The hypothesis about the behaviour of translated literature, and Toury’s Descriptive Translation Studies
    • 3.1Toury’s redefinition of “adequacy” and “acceptability”
    • 3.2How many axes?
    • 3.3Where are the tools for each phase?
    • 3.4May texts fall outside the axes?
    • 3.5Is position the sole determinant of behaviour?
    • 3.6Does “central” and “adequate” always mean innovative?
    • 3.7Acceptability vs. acceptance
    • 3.8Synonymous with domestication and foreignization?
  • 4.The bigger issues
    • 4.1Binary oppositions?
    • 4.2System vs. agency
    • 4.3Text-bound?
    • 4.4Unable to deal with power and ideology?
    • 4.5A coherent theoretical framework proposed
    • 4.6Objectivity and neutrality
  • 5.Concluding remarks
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 22 December 2011
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https://doi.org/10.1075/target.23.2.08cha
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