An Investigation into Lin Shu’s Overlooked Translation: Ethnology as the First Translated Western Ethnological Work

The book Ethnology, which was translated by Lin Shu and Wei Yi, marked the beginning of the introduction of Western ethnology into China. It is of significance both for the study of Chinese ethnology history and Lin Shu’s translation. However, Lin Shu’s translation of this work is yet to be explored. This paper firstly explores Lin Shu’s motivations and the generation of the translation, and then analyzes the translation of Ethnology from the aspects of content adaptation, terminology translation and linguistic features. Finally, it discusses the contributions and limitations of Lin Shu’s translation of this work. This study uncovers Lin Shu’s previously overlooked role as a “pioneering translator of Western ethnology” and highlights the contribution of translation to Chinese ethnology.