Ali Mohammed Saleh Al-Hamzi, T112202008. ‘The
Translation of Arab Politeness Strategies in Naguib Mahfouz's Novel "زقاق المدق (zuqaq al midaq) "MIDAQ ALLEY"
into English: A Socio-Pragmatic Approach.’ Doctoral
Dissertation. Supervisor:
Prof. Drs. Mangatur Nababan M.Ed., M.A., Ph.D. Co-Supervisor I: Prof. Drs.
Riyadi Santosa, M.Ed., Ph.D. Co-Supervisor II: Dr. Muhammad Yunus Anis, S.S., M.A. Doctoral Study Program of
Linguistics, Faculty of Cultural Science, Universitas
Sebelas Maret, Surakarta.
Politeness
is communicating ideas, expressions, and actions in a way that meets goals,
situations, and recipients. Communication goals and social dynamics affect
communication decision-making. These social dynamics include distance, power,
and imposition. This scenario requires appropriate language for different
situations. One must understand the source and destination cultures and their
linguistic subtleties to translate the language. This understanding is
essential for proper translation.
Mahfouz's novel "زقاق المدق
(zuqaq al midaq) "Midaq Alley" is studied for its Arab politeness
strategies in English translation. The present study examines translation
techniques, methods, ideologies, and shifts. The study also examines how
translation techniques affect the quality and shift of politeness strategies.
This
study employed a case study design to investigate the translation of Mahfouz's
novel "زقاق المدق (zuqaq al midaq)
"Midaq Alley" within a socio-pragmatic framework and a broader
context. This study investigated various
politeness strategies employed by Arabs and their translation into English. The research was conducted using multiple
sources, including documents and informants. The data was collected through
document analysis and focus group discussion, which are crucial for purposive
sampling in this research. The researcher conducted a qualitative content
analysis using Spradley's ethnographic analysis approach, which consists of
domain analysis, taxonomy analysis, componential analysis, and cultural theme
analysis.
The study analyzes Arab cultural
values and norms and reveals Arab' politeness strategies in different
situations. Mahfouz's "زقاق المدق
(zuqaq al midaq)" illuminates Arab politeness strategies and their English
portrayal. Abbas, Uncle Kamil, and others use politeness strategies during
orientation. The tactics used affect their interactions with the close-knit
group. Translation techniques applied to translate Arab politeness strategies
into English in Mahfouz's "زقاق المدق
(zuqaq al midaq) can affect politeness strategy. This context uses borrowing,
discursive creation, and modulation. Conveying cultural intricacies while
considering language accuracy, acceptability, and readability is crucial.
Research on conflicts and relationships shows that Arab politeness is complex.
Characters use politeness to overcome these issues. Examining conflicts and
connections uncovers the intricate dynamics of politeness within Arab culture.
The characters' politeness strategies handle these issues. A range of
politeness strategies help people handle these complex situations. They
use multiple means of communication to attain their goals. The translation
techniques employed in this context ensure that the translated text maintains
equivalence with the original while considering cultural variations. By utilizing
these techniques, individuals can alter the composition and significance of the
text, which may impact the overall quality of the translation. The preservation
of the subtle nuances of politeness present in the original language is of
paramount importance. Examining the characters' introspection emphasizes the
importance of politeness in their personal growth and interpersonal
connections. The fostering of equivalence and cultural richness is achieved by
employing various translation techniques, such as establishing equivalents and
adaptation. The translator must be mindful that any modifications made during
the translation procedure can impact the overall caliber of the translation.
The adjustments may result in alterations to the cultural nuances and levels of
formality observed in the target language. Conflicts tend to escalate in
intensity as they move closer to being resolved. Nevertheless, the translation
process continues to employ politeness strategies. The preservation of cultural
richness and societal roles is of paramount importance. The evident impact of
translation techniques can be observed in the management of politeness and the
quality of translation. Exploring the field of translation necessitates a
profound comprehension of the diverse methods and ideologies that impact the
practice of creative translation on a broader scale.
Socio-pragmatic studies of "زقاق المدق (zuqaq al midaq)" (Midaq Alley) emphasize
the significance of politeness in interpersonal and cultural interactions.
Language politeness is crucial for demonstrating cultural traits in a specific
context. Translating such strategies requires a delicate balance to preserve
meaning and cultural nuances across languages. Finally, this study gives
translators the tools to navigate cultural politeness and language differences.
It emphasizes the complexity of cross-cultural communication in a concise
framework, advancing translation theory.
