An Open Letter on Translating
In this open letter, Martin Luther, the German theologian and leader of the Protestant Reformation, addresses the issue of translating the Bible into the vernacular. He argues that the Bible should be translated into the language of the people, so that they can understand it and be able to read it for themselves. He also argues that the Bible should be translated in a way that is faithful to the original text, and that the translator should be knowledgeable in both the original language and the language into which the Bible is being translated. Luther also discusses the importance of the Bible in the life of the Christian, and the need for it to be accessible to all. He concludes by encouraging translators to be faithful to the original text, and to be diligent in their work.
By Martin Luther · First published 1530 · Genre: Non-Fiction, Religious, Philosophical · 2 chapters · 6,609 words
First lines
Wenceslas Link to all believers in Christ:
What this Textopian page supports
An Open Letter on Translating is listed on Textopian as an essay by Martin Luther, dated 1530 CE.
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- Work type: Essay
- Author: Martin Luther
- Date: 1530 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Non-Fiction, Religious, Philosophical, Historical
- Length: 6,609 words
- Structure: 2 chapters, 180 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for An Open Letter on Translating by Martin Luther
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering An Open Letter on Translating?
- How does this essay by Martin Luther fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Non-Fiction — This book is a letter written by Martin Luther, and is therefore a non-fiction work.
- Religious — Martin Luther was a religious figure, and this book is likely to contain religious themes and writing.
- Philosophical — Martin Luther was a philosopher, and this book is likely to contain philosophical themes and writing.
- Historical — Martin Luther was a historical figure, and this book is likely to contain historical themes and writing.
Tags
translation · literature · language · interpretation · theology · religion · textual analysis · historical context · cultural significance · linguistics · faith · scripture
Contents
- Chapter 1: Preface
- Chapter 2: The Letter