Unlocking Lu Xun's Impact at Duke Kunshan University

In an intellectually invigorating gathering at Duke Kunshan University (DKU), the faculty and students delved into a unique intersection of literature and history through Lu Xun’s 1936 Japanese essay, “I Want to Deceive People.” This insightful exploration was part of a session spotlighted by esteemed Professor Taku Kurashige from Tsinghua University’s Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures. As stated in Sites@Duke Express, Professor Kurashige is renowned for his in-depth research in modern Chinese and Japanese literatures and historical interactions among these cultures and America.

Lu Xun: A Tale of Transformation

Lu Xun, originally a medical student, redirected his path toward literary critique to voice a spiritual and societal challenge. His works, including the notable Foreword to Wild Grass, are fundamental in understanding his resistance against Japanese imperialism and Chinese reactionaries. Professor Kurashige shared insights into Lu Xun’s strategic decision to publish in Japanese mediums like the magazine Kaizō, thus amplifying his voice across borders.

Takeuchi and Kaji: Divergent Interpretations

During the session, Professor Kurashige unpacked the essay through the lenses of two prominent postwar Japanese intellectuals, Takeuchi Yoshimi and Kaji Wataru. Takeuchi perceived Lu Xun’s tone as dignified and stoic, though he admitted uncertainty about the symbolism of Mount Asama. Conversely, Kaji, a close ally of Lu Xun, portrayed the metaphor as a reflection of Shanghai’s tensions preluding war, positioning Lu Xun’s writing as a form of fervent, active resistance.

Legacy of Subversive Irony and Moral Fortitude

Participants eagerly explored how Lu Xun’s essay, written amidst rising militarism, embodies both a subversive wit and a staunch moral stance. The discussion transcended literary critique, touching upon cross-cultural dialogue’s enduring significance in politically rigid climates. Queries during the Q&A illuminated interests in accessing Kaizō archives and insights into Lu Xun’s international reception at pivotal historical junctures.

Bridging Past and Present

The event’s success lay in its ability to transform an academic setting into a dynamic bridge connecting literature with historical reality. Professor Kurashige’s masterful narrative guided attendees to appreciate Lu Xun not just as a writer but a visionary navigating cultural tensions with a transnational perspective. Through the Humanities Research Center and Language and Culture Center’s support, this engaging session offered both education and inspiration, reminding us of the power of cultural exchange.

Explore more on how these academic engagements propel cultural understanding and intellectual growth at Duke Kunshan University.