Paul Claudel: Traveller-diplomat and the Middle Kingdom

Abstract

A career diplomat and converted traveler, Paul Claudel belongs to the large family of writerdiplomats that I would refer to as «writer-travelers». Claudel travelled in order to fulfill his consular and diplomatic duties,. A busy diplomatic career certainly influenced the man and his relationship with the host country and his geopolitical vision from a professional, cultural and human perspective. Above all else, it influenced the works of this versatile and charismatic man. For Claudel, the traveler and diplomat, is first and foremost a poet, novelist and playwright. His diplomatic mission in China, from 1895 to 1909, was the beginning of a period of an abundant production, including, amongst other titles: Connaissance de l’Est (1900), Cinq Grandes Odes (1905), Le livre sur la Chine and Sous le signe du dragon (1911). Claudel’s theatrical dramas were also largely influenced by the Chinese civilization. This influence can be clearly noted in nearly all aspects of his plays, notably in Le Soulier de satin (1924), Le Repos du septième jour (1901)and Partage de midi (1905) where a plethora of elements are linked to traditional Chinese culture: subjects and themes, imitating the staging, and the Taoiste doctrine. This article Claudel’s literary production in conjuction with his diplomatic career residence in China.