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Question:

The passage given below is followed by four summaries. Choose the option that best captures the author’s position.

A translator of literary works needs a secure hold upon the two languages involved, supported by a good measure of familiarity with the two cultures. For and Indian translating works in an Indian language into English, finding satisfactory equivalents in a generalized western culture of practices and symbols in the original would be less difficult than gaining fluent control of contemporary English. When a westerner works on texts in Indian languages the interpretation of cultural elements will be the major challenge, rather than control over the grammar and essential vocabulary of the language concerned. It is much easier to remedy lapses in language in a text translated into English, than flaws of content. Since it is easier for an Indian to learn the English language than it is for a Briton or American to comprehend Indian culture, translations of Indian texts is better left to Indians.

Explanation:

The main points in the passage are:

A literary translator needs a secure hold over the two languages and the two cultures.
While translating Indian text into English, an Indian understands the culture better though a westerner understands the language better.
An Indian should translate Indian text – as language errors are easier to remedy.

Option 1 is incorrect. It is too general and does not adequately capture the author’s position. The idea of the secure hold upon the languages and cultures is missing in this option. Eliminate option 1.
Option 2 is incorrect. It does not state the author’s position that an Indian should translate Indian text. Except for this precise stand of the author, the option captures the essence of the paragraph. Eliminate option 2 in favor of option 3.
Option 3 is correct. Briefly, the author’s position is about why an Indian should translate Indian works of literature into English, rather than a westerner who has superior command over the English language. This position is adequately captured in option 3. Retain option 3.
Option 4 is incorrect. It does not talk about the translation of literary works. Eliminate option 4.
Hence, the correct answer is option 3.

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