Τhe nature of translation theory: from prescription to the description of the translation phenomenon

Abstract

Οne of the most influential distinctions in the field of Translation Studies is that between prescriptive and descriptive approaches το translation theory, a crucial distinction that has possibly affected attitudes and opinions regarding the role of translation theory to translator training and translation competence development. This article seeks to illuminate the nature and features of descriptive approaches to translation theory as well as their contribution to translation didactics and translator competence enhancement. Furthermore, the discussion delves into the critique that has been set against descriptive approaches to translation as lacking objectivity or underestimating main parametres of the translation phenomenon such as the political and ideological aspects of translation. The research methodology employed is theoretical exploration focusing on the concept and core elements of translation theory, the objectives of descriptive approaches to translation and main points of criticism against descriptive translation approaches. The fundamental conclusion drawn is that we need a translation theory that will act as a guide for the act of translating, allowing students to produce quality translation products and to handle translation problems both as trainees and, mostly, as future professionals.

Keywords: Description versus prescription, Descriptive approaches to translation, Translation Theory, Translation as cultural act.