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.
Need help with a citation? Try our citation generator.
References
- Purdue Online Writing Lab: MLA In-Text Citations: The Basics
- Purdue Online Writing Lab: MLA Works Cited Page: Books
- MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, Seventh Edition
Writer Bio
Rebekah Richards is a professional writer with work published in the "Atlanta Journal-Constitution," "Brandeis University Law Journal" and online at tolerance.org. She graduated magna cum laude from Brandeis University with bachelor's degrees in creative writing, English/American literature and international studies. Richards earned a master's degree at Carnegie Mellon University.
