Subtitle Culture-loaded Word Translation Method Studies In Light Of The Skopos Theory

Along with the increasing cultural exchanges between the west and China, a large number of American dramas are introduced into China. And the scholars begin to pay more and more attention to the subtitle translation. There are many culture-loaded words in subtitle, and such factors as natural environment, religion, history, and customs heavily influence the understanding and expression of the culture-loaded words in the process of translation. Therefore, it is of great necessities and difficulties in choosing the appropriate translation methods when doing subtitle translation.The Skopos Theory insists that the translator should follow the purpose principle, the coherence principle and fidelity principle in the process of translation, of which the purpose principle plays a dominant role. It is stressed that translation is a process to achieve the purpose of the translator. And the purpose determines translation methods. It goes without doubt that the Skopos Theory offers a good perspective for subtitle culture-loaded word translation studies.This thesis in light of the Skopos Theory intends to explore the subtitle culture-loaded word translation methods, with special reference to the American series Desperate Housewives. It branches into six chapters. Chapter One introduces the research background, significance, questions and methods. Chapter Two mainly presents the status quo of subtitle translation and subtitle culture-loaded word translation. The former involves subtitle studies and subtitle translation studies both at home and abroad, and the later subtitle culture-loaded words studies and subtitle culture-loaded word translation studies both at home and abroad. Chapter Three discusses the theoretical framework——the Skopos Theory. Chapter Four introduces the American series Desperate Housewives and categorizes the culture-loaded words in its subtitles. Chapter Five explores the possible translation methods, namely, literal translation, free translation, addition and substitution with sample analysis of subtitle culture-loaded words of Desperate Housewives from Iqiyi and Ikoo in light of the Skopos Theory. Chapter Six presents the conclusion.