The sixth lecture of the “Chinese Translations of Classic Works” series, themed “1000 Works of the Chinese Translation of World Academic Classics,” took place during the 2024 Tianfu Book Fair in Chengdu on October 14.
Professor Xiong Lin from Sichuan University shared his insights, stating that the “Chinese Translations of Classic Works” have accompanied an entire generation of scholars throughout their intellectual journeys. He recounted how his relationship with these translated classics began during his student years, significantly influencing his education, research, and teaching. With the publication reaching 1,000 works across 22 volumes, he described it as one of the largest and most important academic translation projects in modern Chinese publishing history. He emphasized that the ability to connect and interact with the spiritual worlds of the authors represents a crucial value of these translations.
He also articulated the idea that translation embodies the creativity of the translator. From this perspective, the “Chinese Translations of Classic Works” serve as a form of localization of foreign cultures, contributing to the construction of our own cultural identity. This extensive collection not only reflects classics from humanity’s historical narrative but also tracks the forefront of thought in each era. Professor Xiong stressed the need to enhance the organization and translation of medieval classics.
Chen Xiaowen, the editor-in-chief of the Commercial Press, explained that the “Chinese Translations of World Academic Classics” series began publishing in 1981. It stands as a hallmark of significant achievements in academic publishing and cultural thought since the reform and opening up in China. The series has laid a foundation for China’s academic landscape, opened up new fields of study, and fostered the development of philosophy and social sciences in the country, providing Chinese readers with access to global ideas. The collection grew to 400 titles by 2009, reached 700 by 2017, and is set to reach 1,000 by 2024, covering disciplines such as philosophy, politics, law, society, history, geography, economics, management, language, and the arts.
Chen pointed out that the “Chinese Translations of Classic Works” have nourished generations of Chinese scholars and countless readers. Many former readers who benefited from these translations have now become translators themselves, thus contributing back to the project and witnessing its continual growth.
