The examination of translation and interpretation in ancient Arabic texts depends on the translator's ability to consider linguistic nuances and cultural differences. Horia Khamlishi, from Algeria, explores the necessary conditions, qualities, and traits an ideal literary translator should possess. This perspective makes translating creative texts challenging, even for skilled translators. She uses the work of Régis Blachère, an esteemed orientalist credited with advocating for Arab culture and freedom in Arab countries, as her study model. The author raises several pivotal questions: the reasons behind this Orientalism, the focus on translating Arabic literature, its relevance within Orientalist movements, and whether these translations carry colonial ideologies. If so, what context led Blachère to elevate Al-Mutanabbi's status as a great poet? How did he integrate his works into world culture? Additionally, to what extent did Blachère succeed in portraying a culture distinct from the 'center'? Khamlishi examines Blachère's literary translations and his Quran translation, using diverse examples of poetry, prose, and Quranic texts to highlight the practical and theoretical elements involved. Theoretical and methodological analysis consists of four sections: The first section, "Translation and Interpretation of Arabic Text by Blachère," has two chapters, focusing on Orientalism and defining its terms with references to Edward Said, who describes Orientalism as "anyone teaching, researching, or writing about the East." Khamlishi defines an orientalist as a scientist dedicated to Eastern studies. In this chapter, she highlights how orientalists, especially Blachère, were deeply invested in translating ancient Arabic texts. She explains his approach to teaching Arabic to foreigners and his stance on literary issues through his studies and translations of Arab literary history. The second section, "Theoretical Practice by Régis Blachère," contains three chapters detailing his theoretical practices in translating the Quran, poetry, and prose, outlining his translation principles. This section also includes his translations of classic Arabic poetry and his work on Al-Mutanabbi. The third section, "Textual Practice by Régis Blachère," comprises three chapters discussing his Quranic translations and his approach compared to renowned Quran translators by presenting varied examples. It also covers his study and translations of old Arabic poetry, prose, adab, proverbs, lexicons, encyclopedias, manuscripts, and geography. The fourth and final section, "The Blachère School in Arabic Literature," includes two chapters: the first featuring leaders of the Blachère School, like John Sauvage, Charles Bella, and Saleh al-Ashtar, who studied under or were influenced by him; the second containing examples of Blachère School extensions in the Arab world, such as Idris Belmelih, Ahmed Bouhassani, Abbas Arahila, and Mahmoud Maqdad. This important study on translation and interpretation in ancient Arabic texts uncovers structural and aesthetic elements and fills a significant gap in Arab and Islamic cultural literature. It's highly recommended for further exploration.

Publishing house: Arab Science Publishers/Lebanon Number of Pages: 255 Year of publication: 2010