Work

Multimodal Translation and Queer Representation: Subtitling Choices and Their Impact on LGBTQ+ Narratives in Arcane

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates how subtitling choices influence audience perceptions of queer relationships and feminist themes in the animated series Arcane.Recognizing the growing representation of LGBTQ+ characters in global media, this research examines the complexities, challenges, and cultural sensitivities associated with translating queer narratives.Through a qualitative comparative textual analysis of original English dialogues and Brazilian Portuguese subtitles from selected key episodes of Arcane, this study examines linguistic shifts and translation strategies such as condensation, omission, explicitation, and cultural adaptation.The results indicate that subtitling choices subtly impact emotional dephts, gendered language, and thematic coherence, potentially shaping viewer engagement with the characters' queer identities.Furthermore, the analysis reveals how translation strategies can either intensify or soften LGBTQ+ visibility, thereby influencing the reception of feminist and queer themes.The findings underscore the ethical responsibility of translators in authentically representing LGBTQ+ relationships, making a significant contribution Carolina Tavares de Carvalho Ph.D.

Source: Revista Ártemis

DOI: 10.22478/ufpb.1887-8214.2025v39n1.74783

Authors: Carolina Tavares de Carvalho, Talita Serpa, Lauro Maia Amorim

Language: English

Topic: Translation Studies and Practices

Subfield: Language and Linguistics

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior

Award: G29316538