5:30 - 6:30pm
Lecture

The Translations and Reinterpretations of the Dictionary of Untranslatables

Barbara Cassin
5:30 - 6:30pm
Amphithéâtre Marguerite de Navarre, Site Marcelin Berthelot
Open to all, subject to availability
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Abstract

The Dictionary of Untranslatables , which is undoubtedly untranslatable in and of itself, has nonetheless been translated—that is, reinvented—into about ten languages.

Each of these translations is, in turn, a unique philosophical and political act that deserves further explanation.

Thus, the first two were decided upon at the same time: into Ukrainian on the one hand, and into Russian on the other, highlighting the fact that these are two distinct languages.

Each adds articles and/or omits them. It expresses what its language desires, what we desire for it.

With the help of the translators and authors of the prefaces, I will explain the intention behind each of these reinventions.