Translation Strategies for Cultural References

This study investigates the strategies employed in the Arabic translation of the cultural expressions in an English novel. The focus will be laid on different cultural references embedded in the novel 'Robinson Crusoe'. The study identifies the strategies used by three translators in their translations of Defoe's novel. In order to achieve this goal, the researcher performs a detailed analysis of the Arabic translations of the various cultural references. More specifically, this work discusses how translators follow any type of procedures for the translation of cultural items. The theoretical framework of this study is Ivir's strategies which will contribute to the comprehension of the methods available for translators when translating cultural elements. The study leads to the conclusion that translators adopt some of ivir's strategies when dealing with cultural references. The analysis indicates that Ivir's procedures are useful for the translation of culture-bound elements; however, they are not totally comprehensive. There are some cultural gaps that could be filled by the use of some other strategies.