Analysis On Three Chinese Versions Of Jane Eyre From The Perspective Of Jindi’s Theory Of Equivalent Effect

Jane Eyre is a well-known classical novel. In this book, the author describes a strong-willed heroin that pursues freedom and gender equality. Based on the Theory of Equivalent Effect, the thesis compares and analyzes three translated versions of Jane Eyre with a number of examples. The examples are categorized into translation of words, sentences, sentences that require structural adjustment, descriptive sentences and dialogues. The aim is to see if the translators have applied the Theory of Equivalent Effect in their translation.In this thesis, the author introduces Jindi’s Theory of Equivalent Effect which argues that the objective of translation is to seek functional equivalence rather than formal equivalence, and the relationship between receptor and message should be substantially the same as that which existed between the original receptor and the message, and the equivalence includes the general message, specific facts and ambiance.Through analysis, we can see that all of the three translators have applied the Theory of Equivalent Effect to a certain degree. Zhu Qingying retains almost all of the original language forms, and some Chinese sentences are not natural with distinct translation trace. Zhu adopted some plain and simple Chinese words and expressions. Huang Yuanshen and Song Zhaolin get rid of the shackles of the original language forms; instead, they adopt words and expressions that are commonly-used in Chinese. So their translated versions are more natural and they apply the Theory of Equivalent Effect more effectively in content. The author believes that Huang Yuanshen has exceptional literary talent and his translated version retains the spirit and ambience of the original text without any trace of translation. Thus Chinese readers can enjoy the same artistic charm as readers of the original text.