An Overview of Interpreters at the English Factory in Đàng Ngoài (1672-1697)

Abstract

In the 17th century, the Lê-Trịnh dynasty implemented numerous policies on foreign trade, residency, and the appointment of interpreters to closely regulate the presence and commercial activities of foreigners. This article examines the diary of the British Factory in Tonkin (1672-1697) to shed light on two key issues: (1) the significant challenges faced by the British and other Europeans in finding interpreters with the necessary language skills, reliability, and loyalty; and (2) how the English adapted to and complied with the court’s interpreter policies by employing at least five native Vietnamese interpreters - each receiving varying levels of compensation - over the factory’s 25 years of operation.