Translation of Metaphorical Expressions in Mathnawi

A Semiotic Study

Abstract

The current paper aims at investigating the possible ways to translate metaphorical expressions in the translation of Rumi’s Mathnawi into English by Nicholson. The metaphorical expressions in the original work and their equivalents in Nicholson’s translation were thoroughly examined. The theoretical framework was Newmark's. The outcome of this survey was the identification of translator's preferences in selection of translation strategies. The paper then elaborates on these strategies.