Convenors
Hanna Blum (University of Graz)
Julia Richter (University of Graz)
Larisa Schippel (University of Graz)
Contact email: wg-socialist-countries[at]historyandtranslation[dot]net (delivers to the convenors)
Aims
In recent years, scholarly interest in the history of literary translation in socialist countries has grown considerably, with particular attention given to the censorship processes and how translation mediated, or was constrained by, ideological frameworks. While these perspectives have been highly valuable, they often focus primarily on restriction and control. Our aim with this proposed work group is to broaden the field of inquiry and to move beyond political and literary frameworks alone. We seek to establish an interdisciplinary forum that brings together researchers and experts from translation studies, history, political science, sociology, and related disciplines to examine the intellectual and cultural exchanges that took place behind and across the Iron Curtain.
The focus of this work group will be on non-literary translation and interpreting to understand how knowledge and ideas circulated in diverse professional and institutional settings. By looking at contexts such as academia, diplomacy, or international organizations, we aim to shed light on the many ways in which translators, interpreters, and other mediators contributed to the transfer, adaptation, and transformation of knowledge. Special attention will be given to their agency, the professional and institutional frameworks in which they operated, and the networks that emerged from their work. Through this perspective, we aim to contribute to a more nuanced history of translation in socialist countries, one that highlights not only censorship and control but also intellectual exchange and professional practice, among others.
How to join
If you are interested in joining our WG, please email the convenors at:
wg-socialist-countries[at]historyandtranslation[dot]net
Membership of the WG is open to anyone, including non-members of HTN, but we strongly encourage non-members to join the Network.