A Contrastive Analysis of the “In-coming” and “Out-going” Translations of Zhuangzi

Based on Zhuangzi with Chinese Annotation and Translation written by Chen (2007), this article has conducted a contrastive analysis of different translations of Zhuangzi by Liang and Kang (2020), Ziporyn (2009), Legge (1891) and Watson (1968). This study aims to help translate Chinese classics and offer western readers a better comprehension of the extensive and profound philosophical thoughts of Chinese traditional culture. It is found that with full consideration of the target readers, Liang and Kang’s (2020) translation has retained most of the original thoughts of Zhuangzi and hereby bridges the cultural gap which is beyond the efforts of western translators. The publication of this translation has tremendous significance for cultural exchange and international interaction, guiding future translation practice and engaging in translation criticism.