Interpreting for Governance: The Manchu Conceptualization of ‘tongshi’ in Early Qing China

Deng, Ke and Xiu, Lili (2025) Interpreting for Governance: The Manchu Conceptualization of ‘tongshi’ in Early Qing China. ACTA ORIENTALIA ACADEMIAE SCIENTIARUM HUNGARICAE, 78 (1). pp. 151-174. ISSN 0001-6446

Text 062-article-p151.pdf - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (822kB)

Abstract

This paper examines the Manchu conceptualization of ‘ tongshi 通事’, whose Manchu equivalents being ‘ tungse ’ and ‘ hafumbukū ’ diachronically, as interpreters and their role in shaping the discourse on multi-lingual governance through interpreting in early Qing China from the early 17th century to late 18th century. Philological research of Manchu and Chinese archives from this period shows a process of acculturation, where the Chinese concept of tongshi and the established Chinese translation tradition on which it was based were adapted into a dynamic and multifaceted Manchu terminological system driven by Manchu rulers’ language policies and their practical needs for governing foreign affairs and a multiethnic population.

Actions (login required)

Edit Item