Understanding the Translation of Dante's Inferno

Understanding the Translation of Dante's Inferno

Assessment

Interactive Video

English, World Languages, Philosophy, Arts

10th - 12th Grade

Hard

Created by

Jackson Turner

FREE Resource

The video discusses the complexities of translating Dante's Inferno, emphasizing the challenges of finding English equivalents for Italian terz ARA. It highlights the technical aspects of translation, such as using rhymes and varying vowels, and introduces the concept of 'englishing' as a more accurate term than 'translation.' The video also examines Longfellow's translation of the Comedia, noting its beauty and challenges for modern readers.

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5 questions

Show all answers

1.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What aspect of Dante's original text does the speaker find particularly challenging to translate?

The historical context

The use of metaphors

The rapidity of the text

The length of the poem

2.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

How does the speaker describe the process of translating Dante's Inferno?

As an easy translation

As a simple task

As a complex puzzle

As a repetitive chore

3.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What does the speaker suggest is a more accurate term than 'translate'?

Adapt

Englishing

Transcribe

Interpret

4.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What is a notable feature of Longfellow's translation of the Comedia?

It uses modern slang

It is written in miltonic blank verse

It simplifies the original text

It omits philosophical elements

5.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

Why might Longfellow's translation be challenging for modern American readers?

It lacks poetic elements

It uses outdated vocabulary

It is written in a different language

It follows the Italian word order closely