WHAT CAN TRANSLATION DO FOR THE ENDANGERED EARTH? – AN OVERVIEW OF ECOCRITICAL TRANSLATION STUDIES

Abstract

Ecocritical translation studies aim to discover and interpret the human-nature relationship embodied and represented in translation. Different from studies on translation ecology, they focus on ecology related to nature, rather than using ‘ecology’ as a metaphor. This article attempts to clarify the ecocritical translation studies by analyzing their meaning, features, current studies and basic paradigms. Ecocriticism enables translation studies to transcend the human realm and delve into the natural world, challenging anthropocentrism. In the face of global eco-crises, it offers a new perspective and direction for translation studies, infusing these studies with a concern for nature, ecological values, and the responsibility to save the endangered earth.