O retrato de Dorian Gray: identidade Queer na tradução do romance de Oscar Wilde

Abstract

In this paper, we analyze the transposition of The Picture of Dorian Gray (1891), by Oscar Wilde, from English language to Brazilian Portuguese, having as a comparative version the work of João do Rio (1923), looking through an identity perspective. The starting point of the discussion is the author's life and work, as we contextualize the creation of his only novel through the analysis of the time and space in which it was inserted. Then, we trace the path that connects author and translator, as well as the arrival of the novel in Brazil and its reception by João do Rio. To connect the two versions of the work, the literary aesthetics shared by Wilde and Rio are also analyzed. Regarding the main theories basing this research, studies on identity, sexuality and gender are brought to light, especially the works of Judith Butler and the queer theory. Next, we approach the theory of literary polysystems, first conceived by Itamar Even-Zohar (2013). Associating both theories, we proceed to the analysis of the translated work, aiming to identify the discursive choices made in the transposition of elements that concern identity issues. For this purpose, we follow the technical translation procedures proposed by Lanzetti (et. al., 2009). In total, five excerpts from the source-text were compared with the target-text, and most of the identified translation procedures are classified as domesticatingThus, it is concluded that the translator used his adaptation to introduce Oscar Wilde's work and aesthetics into the brazilian literary polysystem, in a manner that could guarantee greater acceptance in the national context. Furthermore, the research presented so clearly the similarities of the life and work of both the author and the translator, especially in regard of sexuality aspects, behavior and social positioning.