A Study Of Subtitle Translation From The Perspective Of Functionalist Theory

Subtitling, as one of the major methods of translating audio-visual works, shows a promising future with its advantage of being economical and fast, the research of which is getting more and more attention. Subtitle translation originated abroad, and has been researched in multi-dimensions. However, study in this field in China started relatively late and cannot compete with that abroad whether in quantity or depth. This thesis is based on the German functionalist translation theory with a case study, aimed to make small contribution to research on audio-visual translation in China.Subtitle translation, as a special form of translation, has the property of translation and the features of subtitle. The task of subtitle translation is to provide the most relevant message in the most effective way to the audience within constraints of time and space. The unique text features of subtitle translation include comprehensiveness, immediacy, popularity, etc. In the translation process, informative function and expressive function are to be achieved, the former of which requires a target text which is concise and easy for the audience to understand while the latter including attracting the audience and arousing their emotions. Under the guidance of German functionalist translation theory, there are many players involved in the process of subtitle translation. The subtitle translator needs to consider the intention of the director and needs of the audience, with focus on the translation skopos which determines the choice of certain translation strategy..This thesis includes a case study of examples from the subtitle translation of Kung Fu Panda and its sequel under the framework of the functionalist approach. On the basis of the study of the text type and translation skopos, analysis and comment are conducted on two levels, namely, linguistic elements and cultural elements, followed by the summary of strategies adopted to achieve the translation skopos and the adequacy of the subtitle translation. In conclusion, functional translation theory can provide theoretical guidance and basis to subtitle translation practice.