The Role of Translation in Transnational Feminism from China to Spain

This paper explores the role of translation in facilitating transnational feminist exchanges between China and Spain. Through a comparative analysis of feminist movements in both countries and the Spanish translations of two major works by Chinese author Geling Yan—The Flowers of War and The Ninth Widow—the study investigates how translation mediates cultural narratives, ideological differences, and gender politics across linguistic and geopolitical boundaries. Drawing on Gideon Toury’s theory of translation norms, the paper examines the strategies employed in the translation process and the criteria Spanish publishers use when selecting works by Chinese women writers. It argues that translation not only transfers language but also reflects existing power dynamics and affects how Chinese feminism is perceived abroad. Furthermore, the paper addresses structural and ideological barriers—such as cultural stereotypes, limited access to contemporary voices, and unequal discourse power—that hinder the formation of transnational feminist alliances. Ultimately, this study underscores the importance of translation as a transformative medium for intercultural feminist communication and solidarity.