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An Exploration of Translation Strategies for the International Promotion of Intangible Cultural Heritage in China: A Case Study of Daoqing Shadow Play

Author(s)

Qinyi Wang

Affiliation(s)

School of Humanities and Social Science, Xi’an Polytechnic University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China

Abstract

This paper explores the translation strategies for the international promotion of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in Central China, using Huanxian Daoqing Shadow Play as a case study. In the context of globalization, effectively conveying the cultural values of ICH is crucial. The research identifies several challenges facing current translation practices, including the lack of standardized guidelines, vague audience targeting, and a shortage of qualified translators. To address the uniqueness of Daoqing Shadow Play, this paper proposes a diversified translation strategy that combines domestication and foreignization, aiming to enhance its international accessibility while maintaining cultural authenticity. Additionally, the importance of establishing a bilingual or multilingual corpus is emphasized, along with a call for relevant departments support in cultivating professional translation talents. The findings indicate that through effective translation strategies and relevant departments backing, the international promotion of Daoqing Shadow Play can significantly enhance the global visibility of Chinese culture and strengthen its cultural soft power, providing a comprehensive framework for the sustainable transmission and appreciation of ICH in a rapidly changing global environment.

Keywords

Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH); External Promotion; Daoqing Shadow Play; Translation Strategies; Cultural Exchange

References

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