The inaugural World Conference of Classics opened in Beijing on Nov. 7^th, themed “Classical Civilizations and the Modern World.”

This global gathering focuses on the lasting influence of classical civilizations on contemporary society and features prominent figures, including Li Shulei, Politburo member and Minister of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China, who read a congratulatory message from Chinese President Xi Jinping and delivered opening remarks. Greek Ambassador to China, Evgenios Kalpyris, read a message from Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, while UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay sent a written address.

The Conference welcomed esteemed speakers, including Zhang Donggang, Chair of the University Council of RUC, Martin Kern, Professor at Princeton University and Director of RUC’s Center for the Study of Ancient Texts and Cultures, and Liu Xiaofeng, President of the Classical Studies Division of the Chinese Association of Foreign Literature.

Professor Kern presented on integrating early Chinese studies into global classical scholarship, advocating for a research model that connects Chinese and global classical studies, breaking traditional language and cultural boundaries to foster mutual understanding.

Liu Xiaofeng addressed the theme of continuity and change between classical and modern times, underscoring that shifts between the ancient and modern are universal and timeless. He argued that classical studies should not be constrained to antiquity but should address present-day concerns, as shared wisdom from classical texts across civilizations provides insights into the future of humanity.

The second forum, hosted by RUC, centered on “Classical Translation and Interpretation.” Scholars from Princeton, Stanford, Oxford, Osaka University, and top Chinese universities explored how classical translation has fueled cultural exchange. Experts in early Chinese, Greek, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian studies examined classical texts and languages, discussing how translation practices contribute to civilizational dialogue.

On November 8, the Conference continued with discussions on “Intellectual Dialogue in Classical Translation.” Scholars analyzed influential cases, such as Plato’s impact on 8th-century Indian thought and the role of the I Ching in East-West philosophical exchanges, emphasizing the cultural importance of translation across civilizations.

Organized by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the Chinese Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Greece’s Ministry of Culture, and the Academy of Athens, the World Conference of Classics brings together over 600 participants, including scholars, cultural leaders, and youth delegates from around the world. This historic gathering is set to enrich classical studies by applying insights from ancient civilizations to today’s global challenges, promoting cross-cultural exchange, and contributing to the vision of a shared future for humanity.

Since August, a series of preparatory events have enriched the Conference, including a Youth Scholars Workshop in Suzhou and the “Dawn of Civilization” conference, where researchers examined the origins of literature across ten ancient civilizations, fostering interdisciplinary and cross-cultural perspectives. From November 5–9, lectures covering topics from ancient Egypt to the Renaissance were held, adding depth to the Conference’s explorations.

RUC, a pioneering institution in classical studies and comparative classics, has developed extensive resources in ancient text research. Since founding the Center for the Study of Ancient Texts and Cultures in 2017, RUC has hosted numerous international conferences, workshops, and lectures, establishing a platform for dialogue that attracts scholars and students from institutions such as Harvard, Princeton, and Cambridge, who engage in vibrant exchanges within China’s academic landscape.