CULTURE SPECIFIC REFERENCES

Abstract

The main focus of my analysis is the translation of culture specific references (CSRs). This subject, which is explored from a theoretical point has widely been recognized as one of the most problematic translation issues, not only in the field of audiovisuals but also in literary translation in general. Their transfer into other languages and cultures is particularly relevant in the case of fiction television texts as this kind of audiovisual program usually contains a great number of cultural elements. Their role in the text can be varied, and the specific function they fulfil in the various series composing the corpus is analyzed. Generally speaking, such elements are used by authors to give color and substance to their scripts and to provide the text with features which are often intimately embedded in the source culture (SC) and to which the audience, or parts of the audience, can relate. They stimulate mnemonic associations and at the same time appeal directly to people’s emotions as they can evoke images and feelings that are familiar to the source audience (SA).