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The Art of Bible Translation

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( 339 ratings, 77 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Art of Bible Translation by Robert Alter is a concise, insightful exploration of the challenges and intricacies involved in translating the Hebrew Bible into English. Drawing on two decades spent on his own acclaimed translation, Alter reveals how vital it is to capture the original's literary style, including word choice, syntax, rhythm, and word and sound play. This work not only deepens understanding of biblical Hebrew but also offers broader insights into the craft of translation.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for readers interested in religion and spirituality, biblical studies, language, and translation. It appeals to both general readers intrigued by the Bible's literary qualities and scholars seeking insights into translation methodology.

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From the recipient of the National Jewish Book Award for Lifetime Achievement, this is anaccount of the art of translating the Hebrew Bible into English.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

From the recipient of the National Jewish Book Award for Lifetime Achievement, this is an account of the art of translating the Hebrew Bible into English.

In this brief book, award-winning biblical translator Robert Alter offers a personal and passionate account of what he learned about the art of Bible translation during the two decades he spent completing his own English version of the Hebrew Bible. Showing why the Bible and its meaning can be brought to life in English only by re-creating the subtle and powerful literary style of the original text, Alter discusses the principal aspects of biblical Hebrew that any translator should try to reproduce: word choice, syntax, word play and sound play, rhythm, and dialogue. In the process, he provides an illuminating and accessible introduction to biblical style that also offers insights about the art of translation far beyond the Bible.

'Hugely entertaining and irreverent.' - Adam Gopnik, New Yorker

'Alter sets out the principles that govern his translation while also delivering his pointed commentary on almost all other modern versions... This thrashing is long overdue and mightily refreshing.' - Eric Ormsby, Wall Street Journal

'A short masterclass in how to appreciate biblical language.' - Simon Rocker, Jewish Chronicle

'An essential companion volume to The Art of Bible Translation.' - Jonathan Kirsch, Jewish Journal

'A refreshing look into the complex work of translating the Bible.' - Publishers Weekly

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Critics have praised Alter's book as "fascinating" and an "extraordinary intellectual adventure." It is regarded as an "essential companion" to his translations and celebrated for delivering a "short masterclass in how to appreciate biblical language." The lively and accessible narrative illuminates the pleasure and challenge of Bible translation for both scholars and general readers.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780691209142

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 08 September 2020

Country: United States

Imprint: Princeton University Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 152

About the Author

Robert Alter is professor of the Graduate School and emeritus professor of Hebrew and comparative literature at the University of California, Berkeley. His many books include The Hebrew Bible: A Translation with Commentary, for which he received the National Jewish Book Award for Lifetime Achievement.

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