This paper introduces a descriptive approach to translation criticism based on polysystem theory. It explains the aims, critical methodology and scope of such an approach, and uses it to provide a comprehensive account of the translation of Hong Lou Meng into English, a history that has covered a course of almost 160 years and has produced 9 versions. This descriptive study sheds light on three aspects: (1) Shifts in the relative position of Chinese and Anglo-American culture have influenced the norms and trends in the English translation of Chinese classics in different historical periods. (2...
