In a time when millions travel around the planet every day; some by choice, some driven by economic or political exile, translation of the written and spoken word is of ever increasing importance. This guide presents readers with an accessible and engaging introduction to the valuable position translation holds within literature and society. Leading translation theorist, Susan Bassnett traces the history of translation, examining the ways in which translation is currently utilised as a burgeoning interdisciplinary activity. She also extends her analysis into new areas, such as developing technologies and new media forms. Translation displays the continued importance of this pan-disciplinary concept, and is essential reading for students and scholars wishing to understand translation in relation to literary studies, globalisation, and languages today.