Studies on the Translation of Classical History

This chapter examines the translation of classical Chinese history, highlighting its rich historiographical tradition and the challenges faced in disseminating these works to the West. Despite the vast number of historical texts, comprehensive translations into European languages began only in the eighteenth century. Early missionaries compiled historical narratives, with significant works like Martino Martini&s;s Sinicae Historiae Decas Prima and Juan de Mendoza&s;s Historia del Gran Reino de la China serving as key introductions to Chinese history for Europeans. Statistical analyses indicate that research on translations of classical Chinese history, such as the Records of the Grand Historian and the Book of Documents , is limited, with few papers published compared to classical philosophy. Notable translators include Homer Dubs and Burton Watson, whose works have garnered extensive academic responses. The chapter suggests further research topics, emphasizing the need to explore narrative structures, terminology, and the complexities of translating historical names and cultural terms. It also calls for a focus on aesthetic elements in historical texts, underscoring the integration of literary analysis in translation studies. Overall, the chapter highlights the importance of improving the understanding and accessibility of Chinese historical classics through more rigorous translation research.