O impacto social das imagens e representações do tradutor na construção e transformação de sua identidade

Abstract

This article aims to discuss the identity of the translator in an attempt to enhance the perception of how translators see themselves and how this image is created and maintained. The theoretical foundation used for the discussion on identity construction is taken from Stuart Hall, Tomaz da Silva and Kathryn Woodward. Texts on the translator’s identity, which analyze the discourse of translation professionals and theorists, critics and reviewers, are briefly presented and discussed (Lages, Coracini, Arrojo, Sette, Silva, Pomarico, Teixeira). The representations point to a hybrid, multiple identity, marked by tensions and conflicting views. Considerations on the ideological aspects that permeate the translator’s representations are presented and the strategy of using the identity of the author as a reference for the translator’s identity is examined. Ways of dealing with the oftentimes negative image that translators themselves emphasize in their discourse are discussed.