Canonization of Chinese literature in the English-speaking world: Construction, restrictions and measures

Researches on the canonization of Chinese literature in the English-speaking world focus on the canonization of a very limited sum of works such as Waley’s translation of Chinese poems, English translation of Han Shan poems and Liao Zhai Zhi Yi, etc. Till now, there have been no macro-researches on the canonization of Chinese translated literature in the English-speaking world. This paper explores the construction, restrictions and measures of canonization of Chinese literature in the English-speaking world. The research finds that there are two models of canonization of Chinese translated literature, static canonization and dynamic canonization. The internal and external factors together function in the construction of canonization of Chinese translated literature, namely, artistic values and rich meanings of the translated works, interactions between the selection of Chinese literature and the socio-cultural contexts, reviews and promotions of the translated works, and patrons in the translation activities. Measures should be made to promote the canonization of Chinese translated literature, such as strengthening the art of Chinese literature, closer interaction between the selection of Chinese literature and the socio-cultural contexts, reviews and promotions of the translated works, and optimizing the national and international environments of the English translation of Chinese literature. Key words: English translation, Chinese Literature, canonization.