A. S. Byatt's Possession: the challenges of translating the quasi-Victorian epistolary style

Abstract

An analysis of the quasi-Victorian epistolary style used in Byatt's novel and the challenges it poses for the translator, particularly the protagonists' treatment of comparatively abstract, intellectually demanding topics in the emotionally charged language of private correspondence. A discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of an archaizing Czech translation drawing on domestic sources from the period.

Keywords

• A. S. Byatt
• Possession
• epistolary style
• Victorian English
• translation