The Legacy of Early Translation Theory: Challenges and Contemporary Perspectives

This article critically examines the origins of translation theory, underscoring the essential role of historical context in understanding contemporary debates and methodologies. It delves into foundational intellectual confrontations, such as those between the followers of D’Ablancourt and the Jansenist pedagogues of Port-Royal, which continue to inform current discussions on fidelity, creativity, and the problem of untranslatability. The paper advocates for a diachronic approach to translation theory, recognizing the lasting influence of early theorists like De Méziriac and Tytler on the field. By revisiting these historical intellectual exchanges, the article demonstrates how enduring issues related to translation’s nature—whether as a science, an art, or a practice—continue to shape modern translation studies, influencing contemporary methodologies such as skopos theory and interpretive frameworks.