Puzzling translation: Breaking the code

Abstract

This thesis examines the translation of puzzles that are used in works of fiction. Within the field of translation studies, not much research has been conducted into the function of puzzles in (contemporary) fiction and even less into the translation problems they might cause. Therefore, it has not been established what translation strategies can be used to overcome them. This thesis will set out to provide solutions to these issues. It argues that puzzles in fiction changes the reader’s role and reading experience compared to conventional prose. Instead of a passive one a puzzle changes the reader’s role into an active one. The reader needs to be persuaded to become actively involved; the same is true for other types of instructive texts. By explaining the puzzles rules accordingly, using different narratological and stylistic techniques that are compatible with the prose used in the novel, the reader can be persuaded to solve the puzzles. Works of fiction that feature puzzles will be analysed in order to establish what functions puzzles in fiction serve. In addition, a methodology is developed that enables translators to analyse puzzles in fiction and to decide what translation strategies are most eligible. This will become clear in the short case-study in which the novel PopCo by Scarlett Thomas, is analysed and excerpts from the novel are translated into Dutch. By using a domesticating translation strategy, the puzzles are retained in the translation and the reading experience is the same across languages.