On March 16,2017, professor Maghiel van Crevel, a famous sinologist from Leiden University in Holland, gave a lecture about“(im)possibility of sinology” in Xipu campus of SWJTU.

This lecture was conducted by professor Zhi Yu from Chinese department of School of Humanities. Professor Zhi pointed at the beginning that the theme from professor Crevel is anti-essential and interesting, to which is well worth listening.

Firstly, professor Crevel introduced the past and present situation of sinology in Leiden University. Then, he interpreted two items of“disciplines” and “area studies” under the background of Chinese studies. He answered the questions about the balance between universal disciplines and unique area studies. When it comes to disciplines, professor Crevel discussed with others whether sinology can be called a discipline which is artificial with western centrism.

Professor Crevel analyzed area studies from name, history, the relationship with applied science, crisis and revive, core concept. Compared with earlier period with political goals, in post-colonial period, the research of Chinese studies was not only to language, but to culture.

In addition, professor Crevel highlighted the concepts of“Translation” and“Culture translation”. The latter pays more attention to culture context and identification.

At the end of the lecture, professor Crevel remarked 3 impossibilities in Chinese studies: the first one is connection. Each culture is too complex and profound to connect with others. The second one is patent. Sinology is not a exclusive area but a subject for various professions. The third one is closure. Sinology should be an open area. Professor Crevel presented his skillful and amazing oral Chinese in this lecture. In interactive section, he discussed deeply with teacher and students about the translation of Chinese ancient and contemporary poetry.