Introduction

This chapter provides background information important for understanding the signifi cance of translation experience in collegiate programs, as well as information on how this book can contribute to the fulfi llment of the pedagogical mission of providing students with such an experience. Section 1.1 explains why translation instruction and practice have disappeared from foreign-language classrooms in the United States and why they should be revived in comprehensive Japanese-language programs.1 Section 1.2 clarifi es what this book is all about and the conventions utilized herein. Section 1.3 explains the nature of translation, and Section 1.4, various degrees of translatability. Section 1.5 discusses the direction in which it is preferable for one to engage in translation, whether into his/her native language or into a foreign language. Section 1.6 itemizes the skills involved in the act of translation.