System and Parody: Notes Towards a Description of Two Aspects of the Theory of Translation of Russian Formalism

Abstract

In this paper, we look into the theoretical and aesthetic conceptions of Russian formalism and the way in which these were applied to the specific field of translation studies. The functions of translation are examined in the theoretical and historical-literary studies published by Víktor Shklovsky, Yuri Tynyanov and Boris Eikhenbaum between the years 1913 and 1928. As a result of this analysis, we find that two key terms in formalist considerations about translation are those of system and parody. Throughout the theoretical evolution of the school, we see the continuity of certain theoretical constants: systematic, dialectical and dynamic understanding of literary systems and a persistent discussion about the nature of the relationships between translation and writing. From this realization, the conclusion is drawn that Russian formalism has not been sufficiently assimilated by contemporary scholars working in the field of Translation Studies, and that its fundamental ideas might still exert an enriching influence on research carried out today.

Keywords

• Translation theory
• Theory of literature
• Russian formalism
• Literary systems
• Parody
• Viktor Shklovsky