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Study on the Overseas Reader Reviews of English Translation of Sanguo Yanyi

Chiqi Fan, Yuxuan Wang, Xiang Lin, Juan Wang
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21013/jems.v20.n4.p1
Abstract

Reader evaluation is a key step in measuring the effectiveness of literary translations. A thorough investigation of the reception of Chinese classical novels among overseas readers can help us understand Western readers’ acceptance, value judgments, and preferences regarding these works. This study aims to assess the translation quality and value of the English version of Sanguo Yanyi by Yu Sumei. By collecting reader reviews from platforms such as Amazon and Goodreads, we employ KHCoder text analysis software to generate visualizations that analyze reader feedback. The results indicate that several main factors influence reader evaluations of this translation, including translation quality, English language experience, narrative coherence, and overall reading experience. Therefore, Chinese translators should comprehensively consider the needs and reading habits of overseas readers when translating classical Chinese novels.

Keywords
Sanguo Yanyi; English translation; reader reviews; KHCoder; Visualization
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References

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