Comparative Analysis of English Translation Versions of Three Character Classics in the 21st Century

English versions of Three Character Classic have been enjoying new developments in the 21st century. Previous studies have investigated the differences between versions from linguistic and cultural perspectives. Yet analysis from the perspective of the target reader is under-researched. This paper compared the target reader and translation purpose manifested in the translators’ forewords and the layout of the content of translation among different translation versions to probe into their possible effects on the target reader. Research showed the two centers—Singapore and China—emerged as the centers for publication. Translators came from various national backgrounds. The English versions of the work, with their evolution, fulfilled the educational functions for the target readers that they had for the original readers. The layout format of the contents does exert an influence on the possible target readers. Hence, translators of later versions shall take the characters of the readers into account. Both suggestions for future research and practice in this regard are offered.