Lost in Translation: How Language Shapes Our Understanding of Notre-Dame de Paris

The nuances of translation: How the Russian adaptation of Notre-Dame de Paris changes the perception of Quasimodo. Recently, a video by Marie Berestova (@marie_berestova) gained popularity, analyzing the differences between the French original and the Russian translation of Quasimodo's famous song. Berestova points out that the Russian translation shifts the emphasis from self-justification to the pain of being torn between two women. "In the original French," she explains, "the refrain emphasizes Phebus' self-justification. But in the Russian version, the focus is on the pain he inflicts by lying to both women." This change in focus creates a different emotional impact on the audience. The video sparked discussions about the challenges of translating cultural nuances and the impact of linguistic choices on artistic interpretation. Berestova's analysis demonstrates how a seemingly minor change in translation can significantly alter the character's portrayal and the overall message of the musical.