Joachim Boittout

Presentation

My research focuses on the intellectual and literary history of the late imperial period and the early Republican era. I am particularly interested in the early years of the Republic, which I explore through a diverse body of press materials and literary works, often composed in classical Chinese. Centered on the writings of a core group of scholar-journalists (Mandarin Ducks and Butterflies) from this period, my work examines the founding of the Republic of China through intersecting themes that define these years of profound political upheaval: the transition between the old order and modernity, the duality of the local and national, and the tension between classical and modern languages.

Within this framework, I explore the activities of scholar-journalists within the broader context of the press and publishing world of the Republican period.

Recently, through a postdoctoral position and teaching at the National Taiwan Normal University, I have developed an interest in the history of animals in China. From a dual perspective that places central importance on social history and animal studies, I focus on the role of animals in modern Chinese society. Particular attention is given to the evolving politicization of human-animal relations during this period. The history of animal protection in China is a key focus of this research. This aspect of my work is intended to expand temporally to include earlier periods of Chinese history.

Research thematics

• Intellectual and literary history of the late Qing and early Republican period (1910s-1920s)
• Chinese press (19th and 20th century)
• Classical language literature of the Republican period
• Revolution of 1911
• Histoire des émotions en Chine (période moderne)
• Animal history in China

CRCAO research programmes

• Modern Uses and Practices of Classical Chinese in China
• Translingual Practices: On the Social Role of Translation in Modern Times East Asia
• The Dog in Ancient China and Today

Teachings

• Histoire de la littérature chinoise (Yuan-Qing), niveau L2
• Langue chinoise moderne (compréhension écrite, traduction), niveau L2
• Traduction, niveau Master 2