In Search of the Awakening of Females’ Self-Consciousness: David Hawkes’ Feminist Philosophical Construction in Hongloumeng’s English Translation

Abstract

There is a close relationship between literary translation and philosophy.   Hongloumeng, one of four classical novels in China, has gained much popularity in both Chinese literature and world literature. Its popularity in English countries cannot do without its English translations and impressive philosophical value. Among a range of English versions, Hawkes’ translation is widely known and accepted by English readers. The description related to females occupies an important part of Hongloumeng. When dealing with the translation about females, Hawkes adopts the translation strategies of both fidelity and adaption. Based on the theory of feminist philosophy, I construct a feminist philosophical model of literary translation. Then this study analyzes both female characterization in Hawkes’ translation texts and the reasons for his translation choice. On one hand, Hawkes is loyal to the original text, conveying females’ conservative and dependent images. On the other hand, he makes feminist awareness more prominent in his translation, attaining the awakening of females’ self-consciousness. To some extent, Hawkes transcends the public and private dichotomy. In his translation, females have the chance to read books, compose poems, and even manage household affairs. His feminist thoughts reflect intersectionality in philosophy, which reveals the awakening of females’ self-consciousness in various social categories, such as race, class, age, and so on. Quite a few characters, such as Lin Daiyu, Xue Baochai, and Wang Xifeng, serve as the best examples. Hawkes’ personal experience and translation purposes are the main reasons to explain his translation choice.