Chapter from Another Language in Harvard

• Tomas Elliott (Ph.D.)
• Published on 08/01/2025

When it comes to referencing a chapter from a chaptered book that has been translated into another language through Harvard referencing, it is important to maintain the usual Harvard format while adding the translation of the title of the chapter. The translation must be placed in square brackets immediately after the original title. This provides clarity to the reader who may not be able to read the original language. The citation must include all the information that is necessary for the chapter author, editor, book title, publication date, and page numbers.

Key Points of the Citation Structure

• Chapter Author(s): Chapter Author(s) may be a person or organization. When a person, the surname is first and then initials are included. When an organization, spell out the organizational name as it is in the source.
• Year of Publication: Place the year in round brackets immediately after the name of the author.
• Chapter Title: Place the original chapter title in single quotation marks. Next, include an English translation of the chapter title in square brackets.
• Book Editors: Place “in” before the editor’s name. Place the editor(s) in surname-first initials-last format. Add “(ed.)” for a single editor or “(eds.)” if there is more than one editor.
• Book Title: Italicise the title of the book. Include the edition if not the first.
• Publication Details: Provide the place of publication followed by a colon and then the publisher’s name.
• Page Numbers: End with the page range for the chapter, followed by “pp.”

Chapter in a Spanish Book

When citing a chapter in an edited work published in a foreign language, various additional details can be included to make it more accurate and credible. To begin with, it is recommended that all special characters or diacritical marks (e.g., accents or umlauts) of the foreign language be retained. Altering them can lead to mistakes and challenges in locating the source. If the book has multiple editors, include on the title page all the editors in the order of appearance. There must be consistency in the way names are provided since omission or substitution may mislead the source. When translating the chapter title into English, make sure not to translate it word for word but is true to the original message. A proper and correct English translation enables the readers to comprehend the material without them knowing the original language. Always verify the exact page range of the chapter. Information enables readers to easily find the cited section. Avoid estimation or the omission of page numbers. Make sure the date of publication of the book is recorded correctly according to the book itself. For a reprint book, cite the year it was in the edition you read. All these conventions ensure integrity in the reference and attention to detail in academic writing.