To deepen Chinese scholars' understanding of cutting-edge topics in contemporary Irish literature and to promote dialogue and exploration of related theories and practices, the Irish Studies Centre, BFSU hosted the "High-End Forum on Contemporary Irish Literature Research" on November 30, 2024. Experts, scholars, and student representatives from over 20 universities engaged in academic discussions on the dynamics of contemporary Irish literature, theoretical advancements, and literary criticism.
During the opening ceremony, Professor Chen Li, Director of the Ireland Research Center, delivered a welcoming speech. She presented a report titled "The Literary Prosperity of Contemporary Ireland." Professor Chen noted that since the end of the last century, the Irish literary scene has been thriving with a new generation of writers. These authors collectively demonstrate a strong spirit of experimentation and a desire to innovate. They break away from traditional constraints, boldly exploring new literary forms and expressive techniques, covering a wide range of themes, challenging simplistic binary oppositions, and dismantling hegemonic discourses in religion, politics, gender, and ethnicity. This movement actively promotes progressive ideas and reform initiatives. Additionally, the rise of female writers and the heightened attention to gender issues in literary works are notable features of the current literary boom. Consequently, Irish literature research has entered a diversified, interdisciplinary new phase in the 21st century, providing ample space for the healthy development of Irish literary creation and scholarship.
The keynote speeches were divided into two sessions, hosted by Professor Chen Li, and Professor Liu Yan from Beijing Second Foreign Languages Institute. In the afternoon roundtable discussion, scholars were divided into six sub-forums to discuss various topics, including identity and gender issues in Irish literature, Irish poetry and nature writing, Irish drama and social realities, millennial and immigrant literature, national identity and cultural reconstruction, as well as short stories and narrative innovation. Zhang Junhan, a faculty member from our center, presented on "Explorations Before the Renaissance: Irish Folklore and National Identity Construction" in the sub-forum. The forum hosts provided commentary and guidance on the group discussions, fostering active engagement between speakers and the audience, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere.
This forum is based on and showcases the ongoing significant project funded by the National Social Science Fund, "Chronicle and Study on 21st Century English-Language Literature (23&ZD304)". It provides a platform for scholars to present their research findings and exchange academic viewpoints, attracting increased attention within the domestic academic community towards the new flourishing of contemporary Irish literature.
