Exploring the Translation Behind Galley Press’s Les Misérables

Have you ever picked up a copy of Victor Hugo's Les Misérables and noticed that the translator is missing from the cover? This often happens for classic works of literature that have gone into the public domain. In this article, we delve into the mystery of who translated the Galley Press edition of Les Misérables. Let's explore the details and see what we can uncover.

Where to Find the Translation Information

The Galley Press edition of Les Misérables, part of their Golden Heritage Series, is a hardcover book published in 1987. Its ISBNs are ISBN-10 0861366549 and ISBN-13 9780861366545. Despite the extensive cover and backing materials, no translator is listed. This omission suggests that the book may be based on a public domain translation, likely from the late 19th century.

Possible Translators: Wilbour and Hapgood

Victor Hugo's novel is one of the great classics of world literature, and multiple translations have been made over the years. Two of the most prominent and well-known translations are those by William Abbott Wilbour in 1862 and H.S. Hapgood in 1887. These translations are often considered public domain, meaning they can be freely republished and distributed.

When comparing the text on the first page of the Galley Press edition to known translations, several patterns emerge. The text closely matches the version available online, which is based on H.S. Hapgood's 1887 translation. This strong correlation leads us to suspect that the Galley Press edition is using Hapgood's translation. However, without explicit confirmation, we must remain open to the possibility that there could be a different public domain translation in use here.

Julie Rose: A Notable Translators

While the Galley Press edition of Les Misérables does not list its translator, there are several notable translators associated with the series. One of these is Julie Rose, who has been actively recommended for her translations of classic literature. Rose’s work brings a fresh perspective to time-honored texts, making them accessible to new generations of readers. Her translations are known for enhancing the reader's experience, focusing not just on the text but also the cultural context of the original work.

Comparing Translations for Thorough Insight

If you're particularly curious about the differences between the various translations of Les Misérables, a recommended resource is We Love Translations: World Literature in English. This site provides samples from all eight major translations, allowing you to make an informed comparison and decide which version best meets your needs. Whether you prefer the work of Hapgood or another translator, this resource is invaluable for gaining a deeper understanding of the nuances and variations in these classic translations.

Conclusion

The mystery of the missing translator in the Galley Press edition of Les Misérables is now somewhat clarified, pointing to H.S. Hapgood’s 1887 translation. While Julie Rose, with her extensive experience translating classic texts, is a noteworthy name associated with this series, the actual translator of the Galley Press edition remains elusive without direct confirmation. Nevertheless, the availability of multiple translations online and the insights we can gain from comparing them provide a rich tapestry of literary interpretations.

For those passionate about literature, the journey of translation is both fascinating and rewarding. Whether you're reading a novel for the first time or delving into its many interpretations, understanding the process behind the translation adds a new layer of depth to your appreciation of the work.

Related Keywords

Les Miserables translators Julie Rose public domain translations