Literary Translation in Anthologies: An Inter and Intracultural Bridge

Abstract

Literary translation is highly relevant in national literatures, since it has a twofold effect: on the one hand, it expands the literary-cultural spectrum of speakers in the target language; on the other, it helps renew poetic expression in that language. This paper analyzes the anthologies of Anglophone literature published in Argentina by Sur, in order to study those effects, as well as the canon they set in this South American country for literature written in English. These anthologies, compiled by Argentine poets, sanctioned what is now considered a valid canon of English speaking writers for Argentine and Latin American readers in general. Thus, translated anthologies would foster not just inter-, but also intracultural dialogue.