Literary translation is the art of translating literature from one language to another. This includes poetry, fiction, drama, and other literary forms. Literary translators should not only be proficient in the languages they translate from and into, but they should also possess a deep understanding of cultural differences, historical contexts, and literary techniques in both languages.
Literary translation in Turkey has a long and rich history. From the Ottoman Empire to the modern era, literature from around the world has been translated into Turkish, sharing Turkish literature with the world through translation. This is where the importance of this specialization lies. In this article, we will explore different aspects of literary translation in Turkey, from its history to its significance in shaping Turkish cultural identity.
Importance of Studying Literary Translation in Turkey
Studying literary translation is essential for understanding the impact of translated literature on Turkey's cultural identity. It helps us appreciate the complexities of language and culture and how they interact with each other. It also helps us understand the role of literature in shaping our worldview and how literature can be used as a tool for intercultural understanding.
Best Turkish Universities to Study Literary Translation
- Ankara University
- Istanbul University
- Hacettepe University
- Ege University
- Bilkent University
- Cankaya University
- Atılım University
Duration of Studying Literary Translation in Turkey
Typically, programs for Literary Translation in Turkey range from one to two years and offer undergraduate and graduate degrees. Some universities also offer certificate programs in Legal Translation.
The curriculum of Literary Translation in Turkey
There are several subjects that students are required to study in the field of translation, including:
- Translation of economic, scientific, and literary texts.
- Film analysis and critique.
- Essay writing.
- Discourse and textual analysis.
- Advanced reading.
- Lexicology.
- Short story.
- Report writing.
- Introduction to the novel.
- Editorial translation.
- Computer-assisted translation.
- Simultaneous interpretation.
- Grammar rules.
- Literature.
- Translation theories.
- Semantics.
- Languages (with a focus on English).
- Psycholinguistics and sociolinguistics.
- Introduction to humanities.
Cost of Studying Literary Translation in Turkey
The cost of studying Translation in Turkey is considered moderate compared to other countries, ranging from three thousand to ten thousand dollars in private universities, with scholarships available.
Challenges Faced by Students Studying Literary Translation in Turkey
When it comes to Literary Translation in Turkey, students face a set of challenges that require dedication and perseverance to overcome.
- Language Barriers
Language barrier is one of the most difficult challenges faced by students studying Literary Translation in Turkey. While the Turkish language is rich and complex, it presents a challenge when translating literary works from other languages. To overcome this, students need a deep understanding of both their mother tongue and the language they are translating from.
- Difficulties in Interpreting Cultural Differences
Another challenge faced by students studying Literary Translation in Turkey is interpreting and conveying subtle cultural differences. Each language has its cultural references and specific expressions, and it can be challenging to transfer them accurately into a different language without losing the intended meaning. Students must have a broad knowledge of the culture of both the source and target languages to effectively translate literary works.
- Developing Personal Style and Voice
In literary translation, it is essential to have a unique and distinct writing style. However, developing such a style is not easy. Students need to experiment with different writing styles to develop their own voice and personal style.
Job Opportunities for Literary Translation Graduates
Graduates of Literary Translation have job opportunities as freelance translators or in-house translators for publishers, translation agencies, or in academic settings. They can also work in related fields such as journalism or editing.
Student Exchange Programs in Turkish Universities
The questions revolve around the possibility of studying at different universities in different locations outside or inside Turkey. The university offers several programs for local and international student exchange, the most important of which are: Erasmus program, Mevlana program, and Farabi program.
1. Erasmus Program
The Erasmus program is one of the important study programs that allow student exchange between European and other international universities. Turkey joined this program in 2003, and it is one of the easiest ways to study in Europe, where approximately 3 million students have participated since the program's inception.
The program offers financial support, opportunities to learn new teaching methods, learn a new foreign language, and discover new countries, their history, and civilization. To join the program, you must complete at least one academic year, have a GPA higher than 2, pass a language test, provide a personal photo, valid passport, grade report, and letter of recommendation.
2. Melvana Program
The Mevlana program, implemented in 2011, allows student exchange between universities in Turkey and within other countries. To apply for the program, you must complete at least one academic year, have a cumulative GPA higher than 2.5, pass a language test, provide a personal photo, valid passport, grade report, and two letters of recommendation that can be obtained from the university.
3. Farabi Program
The Farabi program allows students to exchange between Turkish universities without canceling their registration in their original university. To register for the program, you must complete at least one academic year (excluding the preparatory year), have a cumulative GPA higher than 2, and have the right to apply for only one university. This grant funds one semester with the possibility of completing further semesters.
Conditions for Studying Literary Translation in Turkey
- Public Universities
Admission to some Turkish government universities depends on success in the Turkish YÖS aptitude test or the SAT aptitude test, in addition to obtaining a high school diploma with a varying grade requirement depending on the university.
A TOEFL test and Turkish language proficiency test (TOMER) are required if the language of instruction is Turkish. If the student doesn't have a TOEFL or TOMER certificate, they will have to take a language proficiency test at the same university they're applying to if accepted. If the student passes, they start their first year of study immediately. If they fail, they have to undergo a preparatory year to learn the language.
- Private Universities
As for the study requirements in Turkish private universities, they don't require any additional conditions from students. It's enough to have a high school diploma with a grade of no less than 50%. When choosing to study in English, a preparatory year is taught, as well as when studying in Turkish.
Advantages of Registering through Turkey Campus
One of the main advantages that Turkey Campus offers to students when registering at Turkish universities include:
- The ability to sign contracts with private universities in Turkey, which guarantees foreign students' admission and a reduction in tuition fees upon acceptance.
- Turkey Campus provides multiple options for private and public universities, indicating available majors, annual fees, duration of study, and required registration documents.
- Based on each student's motivation, we offer tailored educational consultations for their specific situation.
- We guide students through all the necessary steps for official registration in the university and obtaining a student ID card.
- We also assist in securing suitable university housing and obtaining residence permits for students.
- We maintain continuous communication with students to provide advice and address any inquiries they may have.
If you're interested in joining one of the universities in Turkey, we at Turkey Campus are pleased to offer you a helping hand and embark on the journey towards your future. Our team of experienced professionals will guide you through the entire application process to Turkish universities, starting from choosing the suitable program to submitting your application, securing your acceptance, and ensuring that you benefit from all available grants and discounts offered by the universities through us.
