Translating National Identities Between China and the West: Diplomatic Political Discourse 1792–1867

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Xinnian Zheng (Jinan University, China)

Translating National Identities Between China and the West

Diplomatic Political Discourse 1792–1867

Xinnian Zheng (Jinan University, China)

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English

Routledge
30 May 2025

Semantics; Translation & interpretation; Asian history; Modern history to 20th century: c 1700 to c 1900; International relations

Series: Routledge Studies in Empirical Translation and Multilingual Communication

This book explores the discursive construction of national identities in diplomatic political discourse, focusing on translation’s pivotal role. It examines diplomatic exchanges between China and the West from 1792 to 1867, a period marked by China’s national identity crisis. By combining Descriptive Translation Studies (DTS) with Discourse-Historical Approach (DHA), the book uncovers how translation shaped the national identities of both China and the West during a time of intercultural conflict and change.

Through the analysis of 29 authentic historical documents, the book offers a groundbreaking analysis of how translators at the Qing court initially portrayed China as superior and the West as inferior. However, as China’s global position shifted, so did its translation strategies, gradually transforming China’s national identity to be seen as equal to the West. During diplomatic interactions, translators played a crucial role in shaping perceptions of both Chinese and Western identities, thereby influencing international relations.

Essential for scholars and students of translation studies, political discourse, and Chinese history, this book goes beyond traditional analysis, offering a new perspective on the intricate relationship between translation, power, and identity. Its blend of qualitative and quantitative methods provides a comprehensive view of East-West relations during a pivotal period in world history.

By: Xinnian Zheng (Jinan University China)
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm,
ISBN: 9781032936796
ISBN 10: 1032936797
Series: Routledge Studies in Empirical Translation and Multilingual Communication
Pages: 197
Publication Date: 30 May 2025
Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Primary , Undergraduate
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Xinnian Zheng, lecturer at Jinan University, specializes in political discourse translation, critical discourse analysis, and AI-assisted translation. Her publications include articles and book reviews in Meta: Translators’ Journal; TTR: Traduction Terminologie Rédaction; and Applied Research in Quality of Life.