Abstract
In this to paper we aim to discuss some of the complexities involved in the translation of children’s literature. Therefore, we seek to review the literature in search of a concept for children’s literature, identifying some intersection points among a wide array of discourses and the challenges encountered in establishing a working definition due to the complexity of the elements involved. The arguments about the definition of children’s literature allow us a deeper look about the complexity and peculiarities of the genre, as pointed out by theorists such as Peter Hunt, Ronald Jobe and Zohar Shavit. Specific features of the translation of children’s literature are pointed out and discussed, of which we highlight the asymmetrical relationship / dual player - the adult intervenes at all stages of the translation children’s literature; the multiplicity of functions, as indicated by the insertion/ belonging of the genre to socioeducational and literary systems and permeated by their values; and textual manipulation, through liberties because of the peripheral position of the genre. Abridgments, omissions, additions, adaptations, language adjustements all determined by ideological issues are some of the aspects discussed in this paper.
Keywords
Translation of Children’s Literature; Asymmetrical relation; Multiplicity of functions; Textual manipulation