海を超える知的交流-芥川龍之介と章炳麟の日中交流の論考-

Abstract

During the Taisho era, the renowned writer Ryunosuke Akutagawa grew up immersed in classical Chinese literature from a young age. The enchanting fantasies of ancient China became an integral part of his upbringing. From March to July 1921, Akutagawa embarked on a journey as a special correspondent for the Osaka Mainichi Shimbun, traversing through most major cities in eastern China. Upon his arrival in China, Akutagawa met with a succession of elite members of Chinese intellectual circles, including Zhang Binglin, Zheng Xiaoxu, Gu Hongming, and Li Renjie. Subsequently, reflecting on his interactions with these literati, Akutagawa reminisced in his work “Travels in China.” It became evident from his words that a mixture of admiration and disdain for Chinese literati coexisted within him.In this paper, we have examined the “Shanghai Travelogue,” focusing particularly on the interaction between Ryunosuke Akutagawa and Zhang Binglin. Firstly, we summarized various aspects centered around the “Process of Interaction Between Ryunosuke Akutagawa and Zhang Binglin.” Secondly, we delved into Akutagawa's perspectives on Zhang Binglin in detail. Thirdly, we analyzed the limitations of Akutagawa's perspectives on Zhang Binglin and explored the causes of Akutagawa's passive emotions that emerged during their conversations.The conclusions drawn from these analyses are as follows:Firstly, Ryunosuke Akutagawa's views on Zhang Binglin are complex. He holds Zhang Binglin's erudition and eloquence in high regard, praising these aspects. However, instead of direct statements, he expresses his dissatisfaction and passive emotions using metaphors.Secondly, regarding the limitations of Akutagawa's perspectives and the causes of his passive emotions, Akutagawa believes that his primary reason is the embarrassing psychology he faced as a Japanese anti-war advocate confronting China. Additionally, he faced the harsh reality of urban decline, which deeply disappointed him. Consequently, he was compelled to contemplate the realities of politics and society in China, leading to concerns and confusion.