Launch of a book series collecting notes about Vietnam in the early 20th century

Historical texts, research, memoirs and essays on Vietnam during the French colonial period by French and Vietnamese scholars are collected in the book “Vietnam: Echoes from the Past”, published by Omega Plus Books.

“Vietnam: Echoes from the Past” is a rich anthology of historical texts, research, memoirs and essays on Vietnam by French and Vietnamese scholars during the French colonial period, when our country was transitioning between tradition and modernity, between cultural pride and colonial rule.

From the very first pages, the article “Notes of a Traveler” by scholar Brieux - a member of the French Academy, opens with honest and sharp observations on the relationship between the mother country and the colony. Brieux frankly criticizes the arrogance of French civilization, while expressing his respect for the elegance, courtesy and traditional social morality of the Annamese people as distant echoes of a culture that has endured political storms.

Following are in-depth studies by Léopold Cadière, Paul Pelliot and Pham Quynh on Vietnam's historical, religious and cultural heritage, showing the richness, durability but also fragility of the literary heritage in a tropical country often facing war, harsh climate and power fractures.

Another highlight of the book is the rare spirit of self-criticism of French scholars. While most contemporary texts still praise the “civilizing mission”, this shows a different approach: more humane, more moderate, and with a reflective consciousness.

The book includes diverse information and knowledge from research scholars, local intellectuals to far-away travelers, with different voices, sometimes opposing, but together contributing to the authentic recreation of a complex and multi-layered historical period.

The book's content is also very rich with historical documents, research and records about beliefs, religions in some regions, customs, education , art, politics, society, art teaching, artists, records about the royal court...

The book cover is an image of the Huong exam in Nam Dinh in 1894 (Ha Nam school), from the National Library of France. The book belongs to the Vietnamese History Bookcase of Omega Plus.

THUAN DUY

Source: https://nhandan.vn/ra-mat-bo-sach-tap-hop-nhung-ghi-chep-ve-viet-nam-hoi-dau-the-ky-20-post927149.html