Translation Studies
Research Seminar Series 2020-21
Speaker: Yazid Haroun, Durham University
Title: Translation as an Ideological Apparatus: A Study of Ideology in English Translations of the Qur’an
Date: November 11, 2020
Time: 4-5 pm
Venue: on Collaborate Learn (through TS Bulletin Board) OR Guest Link: https://eu.bbcollab.com/guest/be37869b7dff43c793cdc1962731df2f
Abstract:
This talk explores the role of Qur’an translation as a social activity, focusing on its operation as an ideological mechanism. Drawing on Louis Althusser’s inclusive understanding of ideology, it investigates the functioning aspects of ideology in the context of Qur’an translation, both at the textual and the paratextual levels. In the frame of Althusser’s theory, ideology is always-already embedded in translation within or without the state. In this talk, translation is viewed as a transformative category embedded in wider assumptions of beliefs and practices, operating both as a state ideological apparatus––conforming to and reproducing the dominant Saudi state ideology––and as a counter ideological apparatus––resisting the prevailing ideology and thereby becoming a target of repression. Overall, this talk demonstrates that an inclusive understanding of ideology shows translations as fulfilling their social role via and in ideology.
Keywords:
Althusser; ideological state apparatus; ideology; Qur’an translations; Qur’an translators.
Bio note:
Yazid has recently completed a PhD in Translation Studies at Durham University. His current research focuses on the operation of ideology at the level of Qur’an translation in the process of socio-political mobilisation. He is particularly interested in what a focus on ideology and religion can bring to understanding the notion of translation as a social activity.