Contents

Abstract in English I

Abstract in Chinese III

Ⅰ. Introduction 1

1.1 Background of the Research 1

1.2 Significance of the Research 2

1.3 Structure of the Thesis 3

Ⅱ. Literature Review 4

2.1 Studies of C-E Translation of Chinese Classics 4

2.2 Studies of C-E Translation of Three-Character Classic 6

III. An Introduction to Plural Complementarism (PC) 10

3.1 Plural Complementarism 10

3.2 Three Strata of Standards in PC 10

3.3 Relationship of Three Strata of Standards 11

3.4 Breakthrough of PC 12

IV. A Study of C-E Translation of Three-Character Classic in Two

Versions from the Perspective of Plural Complementarism 14

4.1 The Strategy of Chinese Culture’s “Going-out” 14

4.2 Two English Versions of Three-Character Classic 15

4.2.1 The English Version Translated by Herbert Allen Giles 15

4.2.2 The English Version Translated by Zhao Yanchun 16

4.3 Complementary Study between Giles’s and Zhao’s Versions 17

4.3.1 Meaning 17

4.3.2 Form 19

4.3.3 Rhythm 20

4.3.4 Purpose 21

4.3.5 Cultural Dissemination 22

4.3.6 Overseas Accepting Effect 24

V. Conclusion 27

5.1 Major Findings 27

5.2 Limitations 27

5.3 Suggestions for Further Study 28

Bibliography 29

A Study of C-E Translation of Three-Character Classic from the Perspective of Plural Complementarism

Ⅰ. Introduction

1.1 Background of the Research

The Chinese Government has been dedicated to promoting  Chinese culture to the world. On the morning of November 1st, 2016,  General Secretary Xi Jinping presided over the 29th meeting of Central Leading Group for deepening the all-round reform and delivered an important speech. The meeting considered and approved of Guidance on Further Strengthening and Improving the Work of Chinese Culture’s Going Out. Xi stressed that in order to strengthen and improve the work of Chinese culture’s going out, it is imperative to stick to socialism with Chinese characteristics with  confidence in road, theory, system and culture, to strengthen the top-level design and coordination, to reform content forms and institutional mechanism, to expand the channel platform, to bring forth innovative means, to enhance affinity, appeal, attractiveness and competitiveness of Chinese culture, to interpret and promote to the world more excellent cultures possessing Chinese characteristics, reflecting Chinese spirit, and containing Chinese wisdom, to improve the national cultural soft power.