Richard Pleijel

Om indirekta översättningars indirekthet

Introduction

Om indirekta översättningars indirekthet. Denna recension granskar Preston L. Atwoods bok om indirekta översättningar av bibeltexter, särskilt relationen mellan LXX-Jesaja och Peshitta-Jesaja.

Abstract

Arvio teoksesta Atwood, Preston L. 2024. Translating a Translation: An Indirect Translation Approach to the Relationship of LXX-Isaiah to Peshitta-Isaiah. Paderborn: Brill Schöningh. 404 pp. ISBN: 978-3-657-79137-8.

Review

The article "Om indirekta översättningars indirekthet," which translates to "About the indirectness of indirect translations," presents itself as a comprehensive review of Preston L. Atwood's 2024 monograph, *Translating a Translation: An Indirect Translation Approach to the Relationship of LXX-Isaiah to Peshitta-Isaiah*. The chosen title for this review immediately signals its engagement with the complex theoretical and practical dimensions of indirect translation, a concept that sits at the core of Atwood's study. By focusing on the layered nature of translation—specifically, the translation of an already translated text—the article positions itself as a crucial contribution to current debates in translation studies and textual criticism, particularly concerning ancient religious texts and their transmission. Atwood's substantial 404-page work, published by Brill Schöningh, delves into a highly specialized yet foundational area within biblical studies: the intricate relationship between the Septuagint (LXX) version of Isaiah and the Syriac Peshitta version. The book's central premise, employing an "Indirect Translation Approach," suggests a meticulous examination of whether Peshitta-Isaiah drew directly from the Hebrew Masoretic Text or indirectly, perhaps through the Greek LXX, or through a more complex interplay of sources. This line of inquiry is vital for understanding the textual history and interpretive traditions of the book of Isaiah, offering significant insights into the linguistic, cultural, and theological mediation processes inherent in early biblical translation projects and the transmission of sacred texts. As a critical review, "Om indirekta översättningars indirekthet" plays a pivotal role in the ongoing academic discourse. It offers scholars in biblical studies, ancient Near Eastern languages, and translation theory an expert assessment of a significant new contribution to the field. The review is poised to critically evaluate Atwood's methodology, his findings, and the overall impact of his work on our understanding of the Septuagint and Peshitta, as well as the broader theoretical implications of indirect translation. By engaging with a study of this scope and specialization, the review article itself contributes to the dialogue about the complex genesis and interpretation of foundational religious texts, highlighting the profound "indirectness" that often characterizes their journey across languages and cultures.

Full Text

Comments

You need to be logged in to post a comment.