May 21, 2026 | Hybrid Event — Venice & Online
We’re excited to share news of a compelling academic event organized by GUAVA member Trang Phan at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice’s Department of Asian and North African Studies. On May 21, 2026, from 14:00–15:30 CET, the seminar Myth, History, and Religion in Vietnam will bring together two distinguished scholars for a thought-provoking afternoon of talks — and the best part: it’s open to online attendees worldwide.
About the Event
Vietnamese history, identity, and spiritual life are richly layered — shaped by centuries of foreign influence, indigenous traditions, and shifting political landscapes. This seminar takes a scholarly look at how myth, sacred space, and religious practice have defined and continue to define Vietnamese culture.
Two presentations are on the program:
Keith Weller Taylor (Professor Emeritus, Cornell University) will deliver Myth and Evidence in Vietnamese History, examining the gap between popular historical narratives — often rooted in twentieth-century nationalist sentiment — and the actual evidence. From myths of prehistoric origins to stories of resistance and national unity, Taylor will help us think more critically about what we think we know about Vietnamese history.
Olga Dror (Texas A&M University) will present From Confucius to Ho Chi Minh: Establishing and Preserving Sacred Places on Vietnamese Olympus, tracing the long arc of sacred space in Vietnam across religious traditions — from Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism, through the worship of Mother Goddesses, all the way to the emergence of political religions in the modern era.
Why This Matters for the GUAVA Community
Language and culture are inseparable, and for those of us working in Vietnamese language education, events like this are invaluable. Understanding the historical myths and religious frameworks that shape Vietnamese identity enriches how we teach — and how our students connect with the language. Whether you’re a researcher, educator, or simply someone passionate about Vietnam, this is a rare opportunity to hear from two leading voices in the field.
Join Us — In Person or Online
The event will take place at Sala delle Trifore, San Sebastiano, Dorsoduro 1686, Venice, and is also accessible via Zoom.
👉 Register here: https://unive.zoom.us/meeting/register/tu0g8d6mQdCJqh8H78pWqQ#/registration
We hope to see many of you there — wherever you are in the world!
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