The Narrative (Re)Construction of an International Anti-Fascist Identity: A Rereading of Translated Anti-Fascist Literature (1939-1946)

This study investigates how literary translation between China and the Anglosphere from 1939 to 1946 contributed to the (re)construction of an international anti-fascist identity. Adopting Somers’ concept of narrative identity, the study argues that translation functioned as a strategic discursive practice that reframed narratives to foster shared identity across national and ideological boundaries. Through a comparative analysis of Chinese translations of English anti-war literature and English translations of Chinese anti-Japanese literature produced during this period, three major reframing strategies are identified. First, humanistic narratives that risked softening readers’ opposition to fascism were systematically omitted. Second, ideologically charged references tied to specific political doctrines were replaced with more universal framings of anti-fascist action. Third, the moral polarization between anti-fascist and fascist characters was significantly intensified, purifying protagonists while vilifying antagonists. These narrative adjustments collectively highlighted the common experience of fascist aggression, downplayed prior national or ideological affiliations, and constructed a relational setting of unified resistance. The study concludes that translation during the Global War against Fascism actively (re)constructed an international anti-fascist identity that transcended cultural and political differences. This research contributes to translation studies by demonstrating translation’s identity-forming power and offers insights into intercultural solidarity in times of global conflict.

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