Richard Pevear

Richard Pevear, an illustrious figure in the realm of literary translation, embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor of Arts from Allegheny College in 1964, followed by a Master of Arts from the University of Virginia in 1965. His scholarly pursuits led him to impart knowledge at prestigious institutions such as the University of New Hampshire, The Cooper Union, Mount Holyoke College, Columbia University, and the University of Iowa. In 1998, Pevear joined the esteemed faculty of the American University of Paris, where his expertise in Russian literature and translation was recognized, culminating in his appointment as Distinguished Professor of Comparative Literature in 2007 and later as Distinguished Professor Emeritus in 2009. Pevear's literary acclaim is predominantly anchored in his collaborative translations with Larissa Volokhonsky, particularly their rendition of Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov," which has been hailed for its fidelity and insight into the nuances of Russian culture and psyche. Beyond the Russian literary canon, Pevear has expanded his translation repertoire to encompass works from French luminaries such as Alexandre Dumas and Yves Bonnefoy, as well as Italian, Spanish, and Greek classics, demonstrating his versatile linguistic prowess. His own poetic voice finds expression in collections like "Night Talk and Other Poems" and "Exchanges," further enriching his literary portfolio. A master of linguistic elegance and cultural interpretation, Pevear's contributions to the field are characterized by an unwavering commitment to preserving the original intent and rhythm of the texts he translates. His work not only bridges linguistic divides but also enhances readers' understanding of complex literary landscapes, making him a pivotal figure in the world of literary translation.