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Italian to English Translation: Methodology and Practice - LAN00061H

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Module co-ordinator: Mr. Jeremy Carden
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25

Module summary

This module introduces core principles and practices of translation from Italian into English. You will learn about different types of translation from a real-world context, discuss some of the issues relevant to the profession, and have the opportunity to engage with a range of texts, reflecting on your own output and exploring the specificities of this language combination.

Related modules

Pre-requisite module

Italian Language and Cultures: Advanced

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

This module aims to:

  • introduce you to key concepts, practices and issues in translation
  • explore some of the issues specific to translation from Italian into British English
  • develop the ability to engage with difficult concepts
  • guide you to translate a variety of texts and become a reflective practitioner
  • develop skills in conducting a pre-translation analysis of written Italian texts and other content, and producing a commentary
  • develop the ability to defend translation decisions

Module learning outcomes

By the end of this module you should be able to:

  • discuss issues relating to translation generally and/or from Italian into English specifically
  • reflect critically on your translation production, referencing concepts and terminology specific to Translation Studies
  • adopt a clear methodological approach to translation, including strategic decision-making, research, revision and proofing
  • comment critically on the translation output of others, giving valid bases for your assertions

Module content

Lecture topics include: Issues in translation; Contexts of translation (e.g. journalistic, technical, literary); Translation quality; Perceptions of translation; Technology and the translator; Interpreting.

Follow-up seminars will explore lecture topics and key issues in greater depth. Practical seminars will provide opportunity for real-world translation tasks across a wide variety of text types and genres (including journalistic texts, literature, website, tourist guide, recipe, public information booklet, etc.), while working to compile the translation portfolio (3 translations, with accompanying commentary) during the course of the module.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled)
Italian to English Translation: Methodology and Practice		 3 hours 40
Essay/coursework
Translation portfolio		 N/A 60

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Italian to English Translation: Methodology and Practice		 8 hours 100

Module feedback

Formative feedback

Oral commentary and dialogue within class on oral and written language work. Given immediately both to individuals and to group.

Written comments and mark on University scale given to individual students for practice translations, with opportunity for individual consultation. The translations will be returned to students within two weeks of the seminar.

Model answers may be given for class exercise/past exam papers, with class discussion of difficulties.

Summative feedback

Written feedback to be provided within the university mandated time limit.

Indicative reading

Baker, M. (2011). In Other Words. London: Routledge.

Cragie, S., Higgins, I, Hervey, S. & Gambarotta, P. (2016). Thinking Italian Translation. Oxon: Routledge, 2nd edition.

Hatim, B., & Munday, J. (2004). Translation: An Advanced Resource Book. London: Routledge.

Munday, J. (2009). The Routledge Companion to Translation Studies. London: Routledge.

Munday, J. (2016). Introducing Translation Studies: Theories and Applications. Oxon: Routledge, 4th edition.

Newmark, P. (1988). A Textbook of Translation. New York: Prentice-Hall International.

Taylor, C. (1998). Language to Language: A Practical and Theoretical Guide for Italian/English Translators. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.