Titres littéraires: entre traduction et trahison

Abstract

The title of a literary work is an important part of the text. This is one of the first elements, if not the first on which we are looking. It is through the title that the first contact is established with the reader. A good title creates a distinct emotion and makes the reader curious about the reading material. It is already the key to a commentary according to Umberto Eco and can, according to Gérard Genette, influence favorably or not, the reception of a book. Still according to Genette, the title fulfills several functions. The first and only mandatory is the designation or identification function. It can also have a connotative function and a seductive function.

Due to the importance of the title in the reception and circulation of a work, its translation represents a major stake for the translator. How are literary titles translated? How do you get the message that the title is supposed to convey to someone from another culture? Very often the title is the first “dress” to drop or change. Some titles have a translation that differs significantly from the original title for the reasons of reception, decency, even editorial and commercial. By studying some literary titles translated into French, Italian and Georgian, we have tried to show the complexity of the work of a translator and consequently, many challenges it makes. The present article deals with the different processes and solutions adopted in the translation of literary titles.