Introduction

Language translation is the process of converting written text from one language to another. It is a complex process that requires a deep understanding of both languages and cultures. Throughout history, women have played an important role in language translation, from early female translators to modern-day professionals. This article will explore the impact of women on language translation and the way it is used today.

Historical Context

Women have been involved in language translation since ancient times. In ancient Greece, women were often responsible for translating religious texts. In the Middle Ages, women were often employed as translators in monasteries and universities. During the Renaissance, women were often employed as translators in courts and other places of power. To cite few examples here, among many, we can list here Marie de France, Hiltgart von Hürnheim, lisabeth von Nassau-Saarbrücken (ca. 1397–1456) and Eleanor of Scotland, Archduchess of Austria (1433–1480). Women’s contributions to language translation have been essential throughout history, helping to bridge the gap between different cultures and languages, allowing for greater understanding and communication. Women have also been instrumental in preserving and translating ancient texts, helping to ensure that these works are not lost to time.

Modern Impact

Today, women continue to play an important role in language translation. Women are employed in a variety of roles, from professional translators to editors and interpreters. Women are also involved in research and development, helping to create new technologies that make language translation easier and more accurate. Women’s impact on language translation is also evident in the way it is used today. Women are often at the forefront of language preservation and revitalization, helping to ensure that minority languages are not lost. Women are also involved in the development of new language technologies, such as machine translation and natural language processing.

Notable Women Translators

Women have long been an integral part of the translation industry, yet their contributions are often overlooked. From the early days of translation, women have been involved in the process of transferring written works from one language to another. In recent years, the number of female translators has grown exponentially, and their influence on the industry is undeniable. 

One of the most influential female translators of our time is Emily Wilson, who is best known for her translation of Homer’s Odyssey. Wilsons translation is the first English translation of the epic poem to be written by a woman. Her translation has been praised for its accuracy and for its modern take on the classic tale. 

Another influential female translator is Larissa Volokhonsky, who is best known for her translations of Russian literature. Volokhonsky has translated works by authors such as Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, and Chekhov, and her translations are widely regarded as some of the best in the field. 

Don Mee Choi is another prominent female translator, who has translated works from Korean to English. Chois translations have been praised for their accuracy and for their ability to capture the nuances of the original language.

Finally, Lucy Hutchinson is a well-known translator of Latin texts. Hutchinsons translations of works by Virgil, Cicero, and Ovid are considered to be some of the best in the field. 

Notable Female translator in Ethiopia

Azeb Worku is one of the most notable female translators. With her husband, she co-translate the French drama “Eight Ladies” into Amharic in 2006. Alliance Ethio-Française and Lycée Gebre Mariam School provided them with a practice space, and it was performed in the Ethiopian National Theater to acclaim. የሚስት ያለህ “Yemistyaleh,” a French stage drama (piège pour un homme seul) that she translated into Amharic in 2011, was released as a book in 2012. It was available for purchase on DVD and online. She also translated the autobiography of the famous Ethiopian surgeon Dr. Mitiku (“Le Berger devenue chirurgien” as እረኛው ሐኪም “Eregnaw Hakim,”).

Conclusion

Women have had a significant impact on language translation throughout history. From early female translators to modern-day professionals, women have helped to bridge the gap between different cultures and languages, allowing for greater understanding and communication. Women have also been instrumental in preserving and translating ancient texts, helping to ensure that these works are not lost to time. Women continue to play an important role in language translation today, from professional translators to editors and interpreters. Women are also involved in research and development, helping to create new technologies that make language translation easier and more.

Links

Emily Wilson https://www.emilyrcwilson.com/

LarissaVolokhonsky https://www.theparisreview.org/interviews/6385/the-art-of-translation-no-4-richard-pevear-and-larissa-volokhonsky

Don Mee Choi http://www.donmeechoi.com/

Source

The Fables of Marie de France: An English Translation, trans. Mary-Lou Martin (Bir-mingham, Ala.: Summa Publications, 1982)

Secretum secretorum (Secret of Secrets), Hiltgart von Hürnheim was a Cistercian nun