Abstract：Functional equivalence theory, put forward by the American famous translation theorist Eugene A. Nida, makes a lot of contributions to the development of translation theory since it was produced in 1969. It has been highly valued and has influenced the practice of translation generally. Nida’s equivalence theory shifts its focus of attention to the relationship between text and reader, and regards reader’s response as the criterion of translation. This thesis employs the theory of functional equivalence as a guidance to analyze and evaluate the translation of speeches, taking American President Obama’s inaugural address for example. 

Keywords: Functional Equivalence Theory   translation of speeches  Obama’s inaugural address  

Contents

Acknowledgements

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Purpose of the Study-1

1.2 Structure of the Thesis-1

Chapter Two Literature Review-2

2.1 A Brief Introduction to Functional Equivalence Theory-2

2.2 Previous Translation Studies about Equivalence-3

2.3 A Brief Introduction to Speeches-4

2.3.1 The Definition and Characteristics of Speeches-4

2.3.2 The Functions of Speeches-5

2.4 A Brief Introduction to English Political Speeches-5

Chapter Three Application of Functional Equivalence Theory to the Translation of Obama’s Inaugural Address-7

3.1 Background Knowledge about Inaugural Address-7

3.2 Analysis of the Translation of Obama’s Inaugural Address from the Perspective Functional Equivalence Theory-8

Chapter Four Conclusion-11

References-12