Pragmatic adaptation of the audiovisual text as a result of intercultural interaction (based on the Russian translation of the American sitcom Young Sheldon)

Abstract

This paper studies pragmatic adaptation strategies involved in translation of the American sitcom Young Sheldon from English into Russian, as well as identifies the reasons for choosing specific strategies in order to render cultural elements of the American culture in the Russian translation. Modern sitcoms rely heavily on cultural background
of their target audience and use it as a foundation both for the overall plot and characters’ profile, and dialogues development. Therefore, translation of culturally relevant information presents a challenge for those who work on adaptation of the original material to the new audience that might not have the same experience and background.
This task becomes even more challenging when dealing with preserving both the cultural component and humor of the show. The analysis of three main strategies, used by Russian translators in rendering such information in Young Sheldon, is presented, and reasons for their implementation, as well as their advantages and drawbacks are justified.