English Specialised Translation

The course, which is divided into two 20-hour units, will initially focus on some of the core issues in translation studies. These topics will be thoroughly explored not only in theoretical terms, but also in their practical applications, through the analysis and translation of selected journalistic, academic and technical texts. Particular attention will be placed on the key challenges of audiovisual translation and the strategies to overcome them, especially in the realm of documentary subtitling.
The second part of the course will be devoted to the translation of legal texts. Classes will explore the multi-layered problems inherent in legal translation (in relation to discourse, syntax, phraseology, and terminology), with a special focus on the difficulties arising from legal and cultural differences between legal systems. Possible solutions will also be discussed, particularly in terms of their implications for professional practice.

At the end of the course, students will have developed a thorough understanding of the main issues explored in translation studies, and particularly of their practical applications. They will be able to provide a correct and accurate translation of journalistic and domain-specific texts, and especially of real-life legal documents, such as international contracts, arbitration awards and the like.