Alain-René Lesage and Translation in the Eighteenth Century: Roland l’Amoureux
In 1717, Alain-René Lesage published a prose adaptation of Matteo Maria Boiardo’s Italian poem, entitled Orlando innamorato, under the title Roland l’Amoureux. In the Preface to his Roland l’Amoureux [Orlando in Love], Lesage explains that his translation reflects the needs and tastes of his time. So, for example, in order to adapt the Italian poem to the rules of verisimilitude and propriety, Lesage modifies the original dispositio and inventio: he introduces more coherence in the narration, he eliminates all that was too irrational and fantastic, he employs a polite language, he describes well-mannered and respectful behaviours, he changes several of the episodes to show his devotion towards royalty, and he transforms many adventures with the purpose of respecting the concept, very important during his time, of the search for happiness. Lesage’s work can be considered successful: it has been read throughout the 18th century and has been the subject of eight new editions until 1793. Even if Lesage has not reproduced the musicality of the ottava rima and the rhythm of the original, he has offered to French readers the possibility to know Boiardo’s work and to appreciate his ars imaginativa. Being short, clear and logical, Lesage’s translation can be read without too much difficulty and provides very interesting and “riveting moments” to lovers of adventure novels. Lesage’s adaptation retains its importance into our time by serving as an indicator of the public’s tastes during the 18th century, as well as of the moral and artistic inclinations of Lesage himself.