This article reviews the history of the translation of Xi Yuan Ji Lu(《洗冤集录》)and also corrects several long-standing misconceptions and inaccuracies regarding the historical facts of the translated versions of Xi Yuan Ji Lu.Focus is given to the versions by sinologists Herbert A.Giles and Brian E.McKnight by introducing the background,translation characteristics,and dissemination effects.In the meantime,discussions are made as to who can translate Chinese classics and how to translate them with a view to drawing lessons from history so as to explore current strategies for translating the traditional Chinese medicine into foreign languages.Research has found that the spread of Xi Yuan Ji Lu in the English-speaking world began at least in 1853.The 1924 English version by Giles and the 1981 version by McKnight are the only two complete versions.Giles's translation has had a great influence in the West and is widely recognized as the"most influential and authoritative"English translation of Xi Yuan Ji Lu.However,his source language text is a derivative version in the Qing Dynasty and he used abridged method of translation.McKnight's translation is the only version to date that is based on the original work of Xi Yuan Ji Lu.His translation strategy that combines translation and research ensures the reliability and completeness of the translated text,thus greatly enhancing its acceptance in the West.
Xi Yuan Ji LuForensic MedicineEnglish TranslationH.A.GilesB.E.McKnight
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