For the benefit and glory of Russia (from the history of translation in the history of Moscow University)

Abstract

Articles and materials devoted to various aspects of the 270-year history of Moscow University contain references to the translation activities of its professors and teachers, students and graduates. However, references alone are not enough to understand the strategies and principles of translation, the nature and reasons for certain translation decisions, the challenges of Moscow University translators of a social, ideological and linguistic nature in different historical periods. Scientific analysis of translation practice in the initial period of the history of Moscow University from its foundation to the beginning of the 19th century not only shows how, thanks to translation, foreign experience was mastered and scientific knowledge was expanded, domestic literature was formed, the Russian language of science was improved, and the scientific and educational system was built, but also gives an idea of how the methodology of translation was developed, how translation strategies reflected not only linguistic, but also social, aesthetic and other factors influencing translation decisions. In the glorious galaxy of those who turned their efforts to the “most praiseworthy cause” of translation in an effort to achieve the patriotic goal of enlightening Russia, one of the key figures is Lomonosov’s student, the first Russian professor at Moscow University, N.N. Popovsky.