A Corpus-based Study on China's Image in Emotions of Daodejing's English Translations from the Perspective of Communication Studies

Abstract

Grounded in the Chinese-English parallel corpus of Daodejing, this study delves into the intricate interplay between emotional expression, communication effects, and the nuanced portrayal of China, unveiling the subtle impacts of translation in presenting the Chinese image. Through the establishment and analysis of the corpus, the research provides insights into the evolution of emotional elements in multiple translation versions spanning from 1868 to 2009. Quantitative analysis utilizing Pearson correlation coefficients reveals weak correlations between emotional expression and communication effects, both outbound and inbound . Despite a lack of statistical significance, qualitative analysis sheds light on valuable insights. In outbound communication, the nuanced handling of emotional expression, a weaker emphasis on positive emotions, and a deliberate avoidance of excessive negative emotions signify efforts to challenge traditional perceptions and portray a more complex image. In inbound communication, a tendency toward neutral emotional expression aims to offer Western readers a genuine and comprehensive understanding of China. Motivational analysis highlights the influence of cultural differences, historical contexts, reader expectations, and global dynamics on the translator's choices in emotional expression. Cultural nuances play a crucial role in shaping the Chinese image, emphasizing the translator's importance in flexibly navigating cross-cultural communication. In the era of globalization, this study aims to underscore the growing awareness among translators of the necessity to present cultural commonalities in emotional expression, fostering a broader understanding and acceptance of Chinese philosophy and values on the global stage.