Study on the Three-dimensional Transformation of Li Qingzhao’s Incenserelated Ci Poetry from the Perspective of Eco-translatology

Abstract

The “Three-Dimensional Transformation” theory in eco-translatology requires adaptive choices across linguistic, cultural, and communicative dimensions, which helps translations to integrate into the target-language ecosystem effectively. Based on this theory, this paper focuses on the image of incense burning in the works of the Song Dynasty female poet Li Qingzhao. Li depicted Chinese ancient incense materials, implements, and settings from her boudoir perspective to reveal subtle emotion. However, translating these elements faces challenges as most Western readers are unfamiliar with these cultural symbols. By comparing the English translations by Xu Yuanchong and Zhu Manhua, this paper explores strategies for comprehensively conveying the cultural connotations of incense burning. This paper calls for translators to organically integrate three dimensions and flexibly employ techniques such as literal translation, free translation, and annotation when dealing with profound image absent in the target culture, therefore spread the aesthetic essence of classical Chinese culture and the health-preserving value of incense burning.