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Translation and Foreign Language Learning

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ArticleTranslation Theories and Skills http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/tfll.2025.08.007

An Analysis of the Translation of Character Appellations in the 1986 CCTV English Version of Journey to the West from the Perspective of Skopos Theory

Qianhua Du

School of Foreign Languages, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, Jiangxi, China.

*Corresponding author: Qianhua Du

Published: September 26,2025

Abstract

As one of China's Four Great Classical Novels, Journey to the West has captivated global readers with its vivid characters and profound cultural connotations. The novel has inspired numerous television adaptations, including the acclaimed 1986 series. In 2022, CCTV released an English-dubbed version based on this production. Given the limited research on dubbing translation, this article examines CCTV's Journey to the West through the lens of Skopos Theory, focusing on the translation of character appellations. It explores how translators balance fidelity to Chinese cultural elements with clarity for English-speaking audiences, thereby facilitating cross-cultural exchange. The study identifies several effective strategies—such as literal and free translation, cultural adaptation with annotation, and contextual adjustments—that enhance both comprehension and cultural retention. In an era of globalization, the translated dubbing of literary classics like Journey to the West plays a vital role in cultural transmission. It must not only convey original meanings accurately but also ensure acceptability and resonance within the target culture.

Keywords

Skopos Theory; English dubbed version of Journey to the West; Character appel-lations; Cultural transmission

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How to cite this paper

An Analysis of the Translation of Character Appellations in the 1986 CCTV English Version of Journey to the West from the Perspective of Skopos Theory

How to cite this paper: Qianhua Du. (2025). An Analysis of the Translation of Character Appellations in the 1986 CCTV English Version of Journey to the West from the Perspective of Skopos Theory. Translation and Foreign Language Learning1(1), 46-50.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/tfll.2025.08.007