Introduction: Czech Literature and Taiwan’s Shared Struggles for Freedom
A new exhibition at the National Museum of Taiwan Literature brings the history of Czech underground literature to Taiwan, illustrating the deep connections between the Czech Republic’s past struggles for freedom and Taiwan’s ongoing commitment to liberty. Titled Typeset Hopes and Dreams: Exhibition on Contemporary Czech Literature, the exhibition highlights the Czech writers’ underground movements during the Prague Spring and their resistance under Soviet rule. The show emphasizes the parallels between Taiwan and Czechia, particularly their shared experiences of resisting authoritarian oppression.
Historical Context: The Prague Spring and Taiwan’s Struggle for Democracy
The Prague Spring of 1968 was a critical moment in Czechoslovak history when the country attempted to implement democratic reforms. However, the movement was crushed by the Soviet Union, and Czechoslovakia remained under authoritarian rule until the Velvet Revolution of 1989.
During this period of repression, Czech writers faced censorship, and many of their works were banned or confiscated. As a result, many took their work underground, producing literature in secret to express their hopes for freedom and democracy. These stories are now part of an exhibition that showcases the unique literary works of Czech authors such as Milan Kundera and Bohumil Hrabal.
The Exhibition’s Key Features
The Typeset Hopes and Dreams exhibition offers visitors a window into the hidden world of Czech underground literature. It features:
- Typewriters used by writers like Bohumil Hrabal.
- Manuscripts from authors such as Milan Kundera.
- Audio versions of selected works to give visitors a comprehensive experience of Czech literary culture.
The exhibition also includes personal items, such as the files kept by the secret police on prominent writers like Ivan Klíma, providing insight into the oppressive nature of the government at the time.
Bilateral Friendship: Czechia and Taiwan’s Shared Values
At the exhibition’s opening on December 6, David Steinke, the representative of the Czech Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, shared his hopes that the exhibition would help Taiwanese people recognize the shared historical struggles for freedom between the Czech Republic and Taiwan. He pointed out that both nations, despite their small size, have stood firm against larger powers to preserve their sovereignty and democratic values.
Tomáš Kubíček, director of the Moravian Library in Czechia, also addressed the crowd, emphasizing the power of literature to transcend national boundaries. He noted that both Taiwan and the Czech Republic have fought for freedom and independence, which is reflected in their literature.
Special Guests: Ivan Klíma and the Czech Literary Legacy
The event was graced by a special appearance from Czech writer Ivan Klíma, who delivered a recorded message encouraging the public to explore more of Czech literature. As a writer under government surveillance after the Prague Spring, Klíma’s personal connection to the exhibition’s theme of censorship and repression resonated deeply with the audience. His contributions to the exhibition, including records of his surveillance by the Czech government, serve as powerful reminders of the importance of literary freedom.
Exhibition Details and Upcoming Events
The exhibition will run until March 2, 2025, at the National Museum of Taiwan Literature in Tainan. In addition to the literary displays, the museum will host talks with Czech writers, puppet shows, and other events to bring Czech culture closer to Taiwanese audiences.
Table: Exhibition Schedule and Key Events
| Date | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| December 6, 2023 | Opening Ceremony | Ribbon-cutting and introductory speeches. |
| January 15, 2024 | Czech Literature Talk | Lecture by a Czech writer on underground literature. |
| February 5, 2024 | Puppet Show | A cultural event showcasing Czech puppetry. |
| March 2, 2025 | Closing Ceremony and Final Lecture | Closing event with discussions and exhibits. |
FAQs
- What is the Prague Spring?
- The Prague Spring was a period in 1968 when Czechoslovakia attempted to implement reforms toward democratization, which were suppressed by Soviet forces.
- Who are the featured authors in the exhibition?
- The exhibition features works by Milan Kundera, Bohumil Hrabal, and Ivan Klíma, among others.
- How long will the exhibition run?
- The exhibition will be open until March 2, 2025.
- What events are planned during the exhibition?
- Talks with Czech writers, puppet shows, and other cultural events will be held throughout the exhibition period.
