Dissertation: New research uncovers challenges in promoting underrepresented literatures (Orz贸y)
The research highlights the power dynamics and industry trends that shape what we read by examining the linguistic, institutional and commercial aspects of publishing Hungarian fiction abroad. Using a multidisciplinary approach 鈥 including literary criticism, sociological methods and insights from the publishing industry 鈥 Orz贸y鈥檚 research identifies key factors at the levels of translation, publishing and reception.
鈥淎s English increasingly dominates the literary world, especially with the rise of AI-driven content, understanding how cultural, linguistic and literary diversity can be preserved and how smaller literary traditions can survive is crucial鈥, Orz贸y comments.
Global publishing industry limits literary diversity
Orz贸y鈥檚 main finding is that the transnational circulation of literature from an underrepresented language 鈥 such as Hungarian 鈥 is shaped by structural power dynamics in the publishing industry. This includes decisions made by translators, publishers and institutions, as well as commercial and political trends.
Ultimately, the study argues that the global publishing industry often reinforces cultural inequalities and limits literary diversity. The research offers valuable insights not only for Hungarian literature but also for studies on the circulation of literature from other underrepresented linguistic and cultural communities.
The author鈥檚 extensive career in publishing 鈥 ranging from editing literary journals to representing Hungarian authors in international markets 鈥 has provided a unique perspective on the realities of literary translation. By combining personal insights with scholarly analysis, the research offers a look at the intersection of culture, politics and commerce in the global book trade.
The public examination of MA 脕gnes Orz贸y鈥檚 doctoral dissertation in Hungarology "Translating Contemporary Hungarian Literary Fiction into English: Challenges, Agency and Process" will be held on May 12, 2025 at 12 in the old festival hall (S212) of the 蘑菇直播. The opponent is PhD, Habil. Associate Professor Dr. Orsolya R茅thelyi (E枚tv枚s Lor谩nd University) and custos is senior researcher Kristof Fenyvesi (蘑菇直播). The event is in English.
Link to the dissertation:
For more information:
脕gnes Orz贸y a.orzoy@gmail.com
