ELP (Journal of English Language Pedagogy)
Vol. 10 No. 2 (2025): ELP (Journal of English Language Pedagogy)

SATIRICAL EXPRESSION TRANSLATION IN THE NOVEL “WAR CRY” BY WILBUR SMITH

Harahap, Annisah Inriani (Unknown)
Muhammad Khairi Armis (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
07 Jul 2025

Abstract

       This study investigates the translation of satirical expressions in War Cry, a novel by Wilbur Smith, and its Indonesian version published by Gramedia in 2017. Adopting a qualitative content analysis method, the research identifies, classifies, and analyzes satirical elements specifically irony, sarcasm, and parody using Keraf’s (2006) typology of satire and Molina and Albir’s (2002) framework of translation techniques. A total of 29 satirical expressions were identified from the source text and target text, with irony emerging as the most dominant form (51.72%). Literal translation was the most frequently used technique, especially in rendering irony, suggesting a preference for surface fidelity over functional equivalence. However, this tendency often risks diluting the rhetorical impact of satire, particularly when cultural or ideological nuances are essential. While some interpretive strategies such as amplification, discursive creation, and compensation were applied, their usage was relatively limited. The findings highlight the need for increased contextual sensitivity, rhetorical awareness, and cultural literacy in translating satire, especially when dealing with themes of power, colonialism, and ideological critique. Theoretically, this research contributes to the limited body of knowledge on satire translation in the Indonesian context. Practically, it offers guidance for translators, educators, and publishers to enhance the effectiveness and fidelity of satirical translation across languages and cultures.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

elp

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

ELP (Journal of English Language Pedagogy) focuses on teaching English as a Foreign Language and is not limited to the areas of Education and Linguistics in general. This journal encompasses original research articles, review articles, and literature, including: English language teaching and ...