Subtitling Arabic Cultural References into English: The Case of Brando El Sharq

Abstract This study investigates the intricacies of subtitling cultural references (CRs) from the Lebanese Arabic dialect into English. Focusing on the ten-episode Lebanese Arabic series Brando El Sharq (Amin Dora, 2023), the study examines the challenges faced by subtitlers when dealing with cultural references, delving into the subtitling decisions and strategies employed to render CRs from Arabic into English. The methodology for this descriptive study involves the collection, examination, and interpretation of data within the context of relevant academic literature. Primarily relying on Pedersen's (2005) strategies: Direct Translation, Generalization, Retention, Substitution, Specification, official equivalence, and Omission, the study analyzes the subtitler’s challenges and the approaches utilized to address them. Following a comprehensive analysis of these strategies, this study identifies the predominant and most popular strategies employed to subtitle CRs from Arabic to English. It also assesses whether Pedersen’s (2005) model provides sufficient strategies for rendering the CRs in Brando El Sharq (2023) and identifies any additional strategies utilized in subtitling the series. Moreover, the study reveals instances of mistranslation within the series, suggesting potential corrections and alternative approaches to effectively convey CRs.