How to Cite Translated Books in MLA Format

Modern Language Association, or MLA, style is typically used when writing papers in subjects within the liberal arts and humanities. According to the 7th edition of the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, the format for citing a translated book is similar to the basic format of citing a book.

Works Cited Page

The citation of a translated book begins with the author's last name and first name, separated by a comma and followed with a period. Next, write the title of the book in italics and title case, followed by another period. Then write "Trans.", the abbreviation for "translated by," and the first and last name of the translator, followed by a period. Next, list the location, followed by a colon, and then the publisher and date of publication, separated by a comma. Finally, list the medium of publication, such as "Print."

Parenthetical Citations

The in-text citation for a translated book is the same as most other books. At the end of the sentence, write the author's last name and the page number of the citation within parentheses. Place the period after the parentheses. If you mention the author's name in the sentence, include only the page number in the parenthetical citation.

Citing the Bible

MLA format provides specific guidelines for citing the Bible. Begin with the name of the translation in italics, followed by a period. Then list the editor or editors with the abbreviation "Ed." or "Eds." Finally, list the location, publisher, date and medium. The in-text parenthetical citation for the Bible should include the name of the translation in italics and then the book, chapter and verse.

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