6th century BC - 2nd century AD:

• Translation as Interpretation: In ancient Greece and Rome, translation focused mainly on the interpretation of texts, especially those of classical literature, from a more hermeneutical than linguistic perspective.

18th-19th century:

• Literal Translation Theory vs. Free: During this time, debates began to consolidate about literal translations versus freer translations adapted to the receiving public.

1930 - 1970:

• Functional Equivalent Theory (Eugene Nida): Nida proposes that translation should seek a functional equivalent rather than a direct linguistic equivalent. This marks a shift towards considering the cultural contexts of both languages.

1970 - 1980:

• Translation Theory as a Cognitive Process (Relevance Theory): The mental process behind translation is analyzed and how translators make decisions based on communicative relevance.

1972:

• Skopos Theory (Hans Vermeer): This theory introduces the concept of “skopos” or purpose, emphasizing that the objective of the translated text should guide the translation process. The function of the text in the new cultural context is fundamental.

1980:

• Discourse and Context Analysis: In this period, approaches that integrate sociolinguistics and discourse analysis emerge, underlining the importance of context and social interaction in the translation process.

1990 - 2000:

• Theory of Translation Studies (Gideon Toury): Toury proposes a descriptive approach to translation and emphasizes the role of the norm in translation practice.

• Translatability and Non-translatability: The idea that certain texts are completely translatable while others present unique challenges due to their cultural and linguistic characteristics is debated.

2000 - Present:

• Mixed theory and interdisciplinary approaches: Incorporating elements from linguistics, anthropology, cultural studies, and reception theory have

enriched the field. A more holistic approach has been sought that takes into account various variables.

• Audiovisual Translation and Digital Media: New technologies and platforms have led to a renewed focus on audiovisual translation, such as subtitling and dubbing, and the localization of software and video games.

Conclusion

The evolution of translation theory reflects a shift in focus from a purely linguistic consideration to a broader understanding that includes cultural, contextual, and functional aspects. Each of these theories has contributed to a better understanding of translation as a complex and multifaceted process, essential in a globalized and culturally diverse world.

Timeline four key periods in translation history: 1. Antiquity This period spans from the first civilizations to approximately the 5th century AD. Translation in this context focused mainly on facilitating communication between different cultures. Notable examples include the translation of the Bible into Greek (Septuagint) and the works of classical authors such as Homer and Hindu sacred texts. Translation was seen as an art and was often carried out freely, prioritizing meaning over form. 2. Middle Ages During the Middle Ages (5th century to 15th century), translation played a crucial role in the transmission of knowledge. Medieval translators, such as Saint Jerome, emphasized fidelity to the original text, especially in the translation of religious and philosophical texts. Translations from Arabic to Latin helped spread Arabic scientific and philosophical thought in Europe. The use of vernacular languages ​​also began to gain importance. 3. Renaissance and Reformation The Renaissance (14th to 17th centuries) was a period of recovery of classical knowledge and cultural expansion. The invention of the printing press facilitated the dissemination of translations. During the Reformation, the translation of the Bible into vernacular languages ​​(such as Luther's translation into German) had a significant impact on religion and politics, promoting personal access to sacred texts. This period saw a greater focus on accurate and stylistically careful translation. 4. From the romantic period to the present From the late 18th century to the present, translation has evolved in response to social, cultural, and technological changes. With the rise of nationalism, translation became a means of affirming cultural identities. The formalization of translation theory and the development of systematic approaches began at the end of the 20th century. Globalization and digitalization have radically changed the landscape of contemporary translation, facilitating access to texts from all over the world and promoting the use of technological tools in the translation process. These periods reflect how translation has served not only as a means of communication, but also as a vehicle for culture, religion, politics, and knowledge throughout history.      

Middle Ages: Preservation and dissemination of knowledge through religious and scientific translations (e.g., Saint Jerome, Arab scholars).

Renaissance and Reformation: humanist and religious translations that promote access to classical and spiritual texts

From The romantic period to the present: translation as an art, evolving into a field with modern theories and technological integration.