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In the building adjacent to the Bibliothèque Orientale in Beirut lies archives belonging to several Jesuit priests, including Louis Cheikho, a pioneering figure in Oriental studies within the region and a renowned collector of manuscripts. While the prevailing narrative often simplifies Cheikho's pursuits as mere attempts to emulate European institutions, a deeper exploration into the history of the manuscripts housed at the Oriental Library challenges this oversimplified portrayal.Drawing on extensive archival research conducted at the Jesuit residences in Beirut and Vanves, France, this paper presents a nuanced understanding of Cheikho's collecting endeavors. It contends that his efforts were driven not solely by a desire to replicate European models, but rather by a profound aspiration to establish a comprehensive religious and linguistic pedagogy in the region. This vision was firmly rooted in ideals of modernity and secularity, reflecting Cheikho's commitment to advancing educational and intellectual pursuits within the local context.
Furthermore, Cheikho's diaries spanning the tumultuous period from 1914 to 1918 provide invaluable insights into the epistemological understandings of manuscripts, heritage, religion, and identity, transcending the conventional frameworks of Europe and North America. Within these diaries, Cheikho meticulously documents the myriad episodes and peripeties experienced by these manuscripts during the ravages of war, offering a rich tapestry of narratives that delve into the intricate intersections of faith, community, and cultural preservation.
These anecdotes not only serve as historical records but also prompt deeper reflections on the profound repercussions of war on religious communities and their efforts to safeguard their cultural and intellectual heritage. By examining Cheikho's meticulous observations and reflections, this paper seeks to illuminate the multifaceted dynamics at play and underscore the enduring significance of manuscripts as conduits for understanding the complex interplay between religion, identity, and societal transformation in the midst of conflict.
Abstract for Online Program Book (maximum 150 words)
In the vicinity of Beirut's Bibliothèque Orientale lies a collection of archives, including those of Louis Cheikho, a leading figure in Oriental studies and manuscript collection. While Cheikho's efforts are often portrayed as mere emulation of European models, a closer examination of the manuscripts challenges this narrative. Through archival research in Beirut and Vanves, France, Cheikho's collecting emerges as a quest to establish a religious and linguistic education framework, grounded in modernity and secularism. His diaries from 1914 to 1918 offer profound insights into the manuscripts' journey during wartime, reflecting on their significance amidst religious and cultural upheaval. This study highlights the intricate interplay between faith, identity, and cultural preservation, emphasizing the pivotal role of manuscripts as repositories of collective memory and agents of societal transformation.