Risking the Plot and Twisting the Character: Unfaithful Translation in Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart”

Abstract

The significance of literary translation is emphasized, underscoring the vital role of translators in preserving the true essence and intended meaning of literary works. It stresses the importance of maintaining the original work's core, style, and cultural nuances during the translation process. The article focuses on specific instances of mistranslation in Edgar AllanPoe’s "The Tell-Tale Heart"  and examines the  impact  of inaccurate  translation  on  the  inherent value  of  the work. Furthermore, it suggests a qualitative and quantitative approach to assess the equivalence between the original  and translated  versions,  aiming  to identify  differences  and  their  implications  for  the translated work. The analysis reveals that the unfaithful translation of the analyzed text led to discrepancies in meaning, point of view, plot, and atmosphere within the translated version. It is noteworthy  that  the  methods used in altering the meaning  and  in  incorrect  translation  are  not interconnected. Additionally, the method employed in the translation process must align with the result, specifically whether it is faithful to the original. The risk of translating literary works without closely observing   the   details   can compromise  the  outcome  of the  translation,  impacting  how  readers comprehend and interpret the work. When translating literary works, the translator should uphold the responsibility and integrity of their role, ensuring a faithful translation that does not disregard or violate the original.