A diachronic study of Peking Opera script translation: a perspective from theater semiotics

Within the semiotic system of Peking Opera, the script plays a relatively minor role and cannot independently convey the complex implications of its stage art. Nevertheless, as a critical link in cross-cultural communication, script translation is still entrusted with the function of interpreting Peking Opera. Adopting the theoretical framework of theater semiotics, this study selects four representative translators in the history of Peking Opera translationL. C. Arlington, Yao Xinnong, S. I. Hsiung, and A. C. Scottand analyzes their translation strategies and approaches to semiotic processing. The research reveals that, although these translators employed markedly different methods reflecting the historical contexts they inhabited and the expectations of their target readerships, all demonstrated a profound sensitivity to the theatricality and performative sign system of Peking Opera. Their translations exhibit diverse paths and strategic choices in representing stage meaning through textual forms.