A study of linguistic-cultural norms in the translation of the novel

Ganjali, Abbas; Nouri Keyzghani,, Seyyed Mahdi; Salmanihaghighi, Masoud

doi:10.22059/jal-lq.2026.398256.1514

A study of linguistic-cultural norms in the translation of the novel "Brid Al-Lail" by Hoda Barakat, based on Gideon Tori's tripartite norms

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

abbas ganjali ¹

Seyyed mahdi Nouri keyzghani, ²

masoud salmanihaghighi ³

¹ Hakim Sabzevari University. Department of Arabic Language and Literature

² Associate Professor, Department of Arabic Language and Literature, Hakim Sabzevari University

³ Postdoctoral researcher in Arabic language and literature, Hakim Sabzevari University

10.22059/jal-lq.2026.398256.1514

Abstract

The translation of literary texts requires adherence to a set of scientific rules and standards. Compliance with these standards helps the translator achieve a reliable translation by rendering words and phrases in the most appropriate way. In this regard, many theorists have addressed various translation methods to improve and enhance its quality. One such theory is that of Gideon Toury. In his discussion of the translation process, Toury identified three primary criteriaprocedural, presentational, and linguisticas sources of balance in translation. This study, using a descriptive-analytical approach, critiques Hamidreza Mohajerani's translation of Hoda Barakat's novel " Brid Al-Lail " and examines it in light of Toury's theory. The research findings indicate that the translator, in translating the majority of the novel's vocabulary and phrases, attempted to maintain fidelity and convey the intended meaning while also striving to address literary devices and eliminate ambiguity. However, the study of this translation reveals that the translator increasingly favored the target language and translations that catered to the reader's taste, even though he made errors in translating some phrases. Therefore, some transformations and changes have taken place in the translation of this novel in an artistic and appropriate manner, without these transformations resulting in a change in the key notes and themes and creating a deep flaw and gap in the translated text.

Keywords

Translation criticism

Gideon Toury

The Three Standards

Mohajerani

Brid Al-Lail

Subjects