Venezuela. History of translation

Abstract

Translation has contributed to numerous cultural and identity issues in the history of Venezuela. In this entry, we will explore the Venezuelan cultural and historical heritage related to the activity of translation, from the first human settlements in Venezuela to the present day. We will opt for an approach that considers historical documents and events from the perspective of Translation and Interpreting Studies (TIS). In this regard, this work will shed light on the phenomenon of translation as well as on the agents involved in the translation process who played an important role in the history of Venezuela. In addition, the main trends in Venezuelan translation practice (appropriation, adaptation, transcreation, and intervention) will be studied. Five main periods will be considered in this entry: First, the pre-Columbian era in Venezuela, a long period covering the evolution of the first human settlements in that country. Second, the encounter between the indigenous peoples and the Spaniards (1492–1533), a period characterized by significant interpretation activity. Third, colonization (from the second half of the 16th century to the first half of the 18th century), a period characterized by relatively stable and organized translation activity. Fourth, emancipation (from the second half of the 18th century to the first half of the 19th century). Political translations and the role of the press will both come under scrutiny. Finally, the Republic (from the second half of the 19th century to the present).