FILE PHOTO: Limited Views employs a comparative approach to reveal the commonalities and differences between Chinese and foreign literature.

---

What is the Chinese perspective on foreign literature studies? In the context of Chinese modernization, foreign literature research has gradually formed a distinct research paradigm and methodology with Chinese characteristics. 

Specifically, foreign literature research from a Chinese perspective mainly includes the following three aspects. The first aspect is cultural dialogue and intercultural exchanges. For instance, Lu Xun, a pioneer of modern Chinese literature, conducted extensive research on Russian literature, particularly the works of Anton Chekhov and Nikolay Gogol. By translating and introducing these works to Chinese audiences, he significantly contributed to the literary exchange between China and Russia. The second aspect is localization and re-creation. For example, Ba Jin, although profoundly influenced by French writers Romain Rolland and Victor Hugo, did not merely imitate their styles. Instead, he adapted the themes and artistic techniques of French literature to reflect China’s social realities. This approach led to the creation of classic works like Family, Spring, and Autumn, which portray traditional Chinese family life and social transformations. The third aspect is comparative study and theoretical innovation. For instance, Qian Zhongshu’s Limited Views: Essays on Ideas and Letters employs a comparative research approach to reveal the commonalities and differences between Chinese and foreign literature. His concept of “cultural integration” introduces a fresh theoretical perspective for foreign literature research. Qian’s work not only examines Chinese and foreign literature but also uses comparative literary methods to explore the interplay and mutual influence between different cultures and literary traditions. His research offered important methodological insights for foreign literature studies in China and advanced the development of comparative literature.  

Mutual promotion

The study of foreign literature from a Chinese perspective has not only enriched China’s literary research paradigm but has also significantly influenced the country’s modernization. First and foremost, it bolsters cultural confidence. Through the study of foreign literature, Chinese scholars absorb the valuable achievements of other cultures while also gaining a deeper appreciation of their own culture through comparative research. For example, Shen Congwen, a prominent figure in modern Chinese literature, was heavily influenced by the works of Western modernist writers like James Joyce and William Faulkner. He boldly incorporated modernist techniques such as stream of consciousness and inner monologue into his works, successfully integrating these with Chinese rural themes to create classic works such as Border Town. His innovative approach not only expanded the expressive capabilities of Chinese literature but also reinforced the cultural confidence of Chinese writers. By integrating Western literary techniques with Chinese rural themes, he showcased the unique allure of Chinese culture. In terms of its global significance, Shen’s works showcase the beauty and depth of rural Chinese culture, thereby elevating the international standing of Chinese literature and enhancing the sense of identity and pride among Chinese readers towards their own culture. 

Secondly, it promotes intercultural understanding. Viewing foreign literature through a Chinese lens helps facilitate exchanges and understanding between Chinese and foreign cultures. In the context of globalization, intercultural understanding is of great significance for peace and cooperation between nations. Through literary studies, scholars can build bridges between different cultures, encouraging mutual understanding and respect. Intercultural literary creation not only broadens the international appeal of literary works but also enriches Chinese readers’ understanding of world literature and culture. This not only drives the internationalization of Chinese modernization efforts, but also enhances the influence and competitiveness of Chinese culture in the global arena. 

Finally, it drives social progress. By comparing the ideas and concepts presented in Chinese and Western literary works and examining the contradictions and dilemmas in modern society, readers are prompted to reflect deeply on social issues, which drives social progress forward. This is of great significance for social construction and cultural development within Chinese modernization. 

Going forward

To advance the development of the Chinese perspective on foreign literature and to further promote the study of foreign literature from this viewpoint, there is still considerable work ahead. In-depth discussions and the implementation of targeted measures are needed in three key areas: disciplinary construction, international exchanges, and localization studies. 

Firstly, it is advised to strengthen disciplinary development. Foreign literature studies are not limited to literature itself, but also involve history, philosophy, sociology, and cultural studies, among other disciplines. Therefore, establishing a multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary research platform can promote joint research among scholars from different disciplines, enriching and deepening foreign literature studies. 

Secondly, international exchanges should be promoted. Encouraging scholars to engage in international collaborative research can provide access to additional resources and diverse perspectives, thereby enhancing the global impact of their studies. Universities and research institutions should encourage and support scholars to participate in international collaborative research projects, jointly exploring and studying important issues in foreign literature with top scholars from abroad. 

Thirdly, focusing on localization  studies is crucial. Foreign literature studies should not only understand the cultural and historical background of original works, but also integrate China’s social realities for a localized interpretation. When studying social issues in foreign literature, one can compare analogous issues in China. For example, Janet Winters, a prominent British contemporary writer, explores complex themes such as gender identity and family relationships in works like Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit and Written on the Body. In-depth analysis can be conducted in conjunction with China’s evolving gender equality and family structures. Her works reveal the gender issues in British society, while in China, the evolving status of gender equality and changing family values have become an important topic in the process of modernization. By comparing these issues, we can identify common challenges in social transformation and offer insights from a Chinese perspective. By combining social realities and localized interpretations, we can propose more targeted policies and social initiatives to promote social progress and harmonious development, while offering fresh ideas and solutions for social reform. 

Chinese modernization and foreign literature studies with a Chinese perspective are complementary and mutually beneficial. In the process of Chinese modernization, foreign literature studies can not only provide rich cultural resources and intellectual inspiration, but also enhance China’s cultural confidence and international influence through intercultural dialogue and exchanges. Through continuous innovation and development, the Chinese perspective on foreign literature will undoubtedly inject new vitality and impetus into China’s modernization process and make new contributions to the exchanges and mutual learning among human civilizations.

Guo Yingjian is a professor from the School of Foreign Languages at Renmin University of China.  

Edited by ZHAO YUAN