Computational Approaches to Analysing Literary Images: A Case Study of Legends of the Condor Heroes

This study used computational methods to analyse the portrayal of two main characters in Jin Yong’s renowned novel, Legends of the Condor Heroes, a significant wuxia (martial arts) fiction. The novel, praised for its storytelling and depiction of ancient Chinese culture, has been translated into several languages. This research delved into the interplay between computing and literary studies by employing computational tools to examine character images through language data. Two English translations of the novel by Anna Holmwood and Gigi Chang were compared with the original Chinese text. The analysis revealed that Gigi Chang, a Chinese translator, stayed true to the original descriptions, while Anna Holmwood simplified the character portrayals to cater to English readers. The study highlights differences in word choice and character depiction influenced by the translator’s background. Through computational approaches, this study aims to enhance understanding of literary images within wuxia novels, offering insights into the intersection of culture and technology in humanities research.