The role of translation in the constitution of Bulgarian fundamental prose

Abstract

This study aims to examine the evolution of translation in Bulgaria in order to demonstrate that Bulgarian literature, as every « young » literature, was born in the translational act. Based on the Berman’s concept of fundamental prose, it will seek to illustrate, through examples, the decisive role that translation played in the stages of this literature. The outline of the major translational issues will try to reveal the two essential characteristics of this founder and compensatory activity, and prove that the translation has contributed to the constitution of national identity, the development of Bulgarian culture and the consolidation of his literary polysystem. The reflection will be structured in three parts. Firstly, it will examine the relationship between tradition and translation. Secondly, it will draw the Bulgarian translational motion that began with the translation of the Holy Scriptures by Cyril and Methodius, which served as a model for subsequent writing experiences and contributed to the formation of national identity and language. Finally, it will seek to emphasize some of the highlights of the Bulgarian history of translation and their influences on literary creation.