Translation in History
Translation as a Tool for Evolution and Cultural Sharing Throughout Civilizations.
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The origins of translation
Antiquity
Translation is an activity that dates back to antiquity. The first translators worked on religious and legal texts in languages such as Sumerian and Akkadian in Mesopotamia and hieroglyphics in Egypt. Beginning in the fifth century B.C., scholars and intellectuals also translated Greek texts into Latin, Persian, Syriac, and other languages.
Ancient Greece
In Ancient Greece, the literary classics of Homer, Herodotus, and other Greek authors were translated into Latin and other languages of the region. The Romans continued, translating Greek into Latin, creating a rich European translation tradition. Latin authors such as Cicero, Virgil, and Horace also produced translations of Greek texts into their own languages.
Saint Jerome
But without a doubt, the most important contribution to the history of translation was made by Saint Jerome, considered one of the most important translators ever. In the fourth and fifth century, he translated the Bible into Latin, creating the famous Vulgate. His translation remained the standard version of the Bible for more than a thousand years and had a profound influence on European literature.
The Middle Ages
In the Middle Ages, translations of Latin texts into vernacular languages like English, French, German, and Italian became common. Translations of the Koran, the Bible, and other religious texts were also important during this period. Translators played a key role in the transmission of ideas and knowledge throughout Europe, helping to lay the foundation for the Renaissance.
The Renaissance
The Renaissance was marked by an explosion of translation activity. Translations of classical Greek and Latin texts into the vernacular languages became a regular occurrence, contributing to the spread of culture and knowledge throughout Europe. With translators such as François Villon and Étienne Dolet working on literary and philosophical texts, translation became a true art form.
Translation in the contemporary age
In the modern era, translations have become more accurate and faithful to the original texts. This is due to advances in linguistics and lexicography. Translating scientific and technical texts began to become important, especially with the Industrial Revolution. Translators helped spread scientific knowledge throughout Europe by working on texts about machines, industrial processes, and natural sciences.
In the 20th century, translation has become a major economic and political question due to globalization and the spread of mass media.
Translation is a key element of international communication, enabling companies to communicate effectively with customers worldwide.
Today, translation into every language is an activity that continues to grow. Technological advances such as automated translation and translation software have made translating faster and easier. However, human translators are essential to ensure the quality and accuracy of translations, especially in areas such as literature, poetry, and legal texts.
Translation has also become an important means of promoting cultural diversity and fostering understanding between peoples. Translators play a key role in spreading literature and culture throughout the world, helping to introduce authors and artists from different countries and cultures. Ultimately, the history of translation shows that this activity has been crucial to the transmission of knowledge and ideas throughout the ages. Translation has played a key role in the advancement of human civilization, from the translation of religious and legal texts in ancient times to the translation of scientific and technical texts in modern times. Today, translators are still an important part of international communication and understanding. They promote cooperation and exchange between cultures and peoples.
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