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5.1 Introduction
Chapter Five: Scenes involving politeness
This chapter will present a discussion of findings in the framework of the cultural
difference concerning politeness, which was brought up in the literature review. It will
start with a discussion of the findings in relation to the four benchmarks, power distance,
masculinity, uncertainty avoidance and individualism against which different cultures
can be measured (Martin & Nahayama, 2000; Hofstede, 1973). This will be followed by
a discussion of politeness theory in relation to findings. Next I will move on to a
discussion of how the translators handled the constraints of subtitled as there were
outlined in the literature review.
5.2 Four benchmarks
5.2.1 Power distance
Firstly I will look at examples of power distance (Hofstede, 1973). Power distance
deals with the extent to which uneven distribution of power between members of
society is accepted within that society. I must stress here that Chinese viewers will very
likely not be aware that the series Friends is a comedy and not to be taken seriously.
Hence any outrageous behaviour used by the script writers of the series Friends to v ea
laugh from the audience will most likely be taken to be a true reflection of US society
by the Chinese viewers.
The first scene I will present is found in Season 6, episode 6, scene 3.
a) Description of Scene:
In this scene, at a work party, Chandler introduced his boss, Doug, and his wife to
Monica. It is clear that although Doug is Chandler‟s boss, they are really likely a
couple of friends. Doug even slapped Chandler‟s on his backside, as did Doug‟s
wife.
b) Line:
Doug: “Hey Bing! (slaps him on his backside and sees Monica) Wo-ho-ho, Who‟s
the pretty lady and what the hell is she doing with you?”
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