Reframing Zhuangzi through recontextualization

Abstract Within a multimodal framework, this study investigates the images of Zhuangzi (author of the Chinese Classic 莊子 Zhuangzi ) represented by the front covers of both the comic adaptation 莊子 説 Zhuangzi Shuo and its three translations. It is found these covers represent different images of Zhuangzi through processes of recontextualization. In the Chinese adaptation Zhuangzi Shuo , Zhuangzi, while being emphasized as a revered ancient Chinese philosopher, is remolded from an author into a funny speaker absorbed in expressing his thoughts regardless of whether there is any audience. In Zhuangzi Speaks , an English translation published in America, Zhuangzi is repackaged as a friendly interlocutor sharing with readers his thoughts. In The Sayings of Zhuang Zi , another English translation published in Singapore, Zhuangzi is reshaped as a historical figure for detached observation, one frustrated by chaos in reality and investing his thought into his writing. In Lehrsprüche des Dschuang Dsi , a German translation translated indirectly from the Singaporean one, Zhuangzi, while being a historical figure for detached observation as well, is re-reshaped as a reputable Chinese sage, who is old-fashioned but accessible. Differences in these images can be ascribed to diverse perceptions of comics and Zhuangzi in the countries concerned.