Keynote Speaker

Reading is considered a fundamental part in literary studies and the study of reading has been theorized in various ways, from the rigorous textual analysis of New Criticism to contemporary frameworks like reader-response theory and cognitive literary criticism. More recent conceptualized attempts such as surface reading and deep reading have further enriched our understanding in this complex activity. In the context of today’s knowledge landscape saturated with transnational and cross-cultural texts from new media and digital platforms, it is necessary to revisit the foundational question of "why" we read, alongside considerations of "how" and "what" we read.

This leads to the discussion on reading ethics that intertwines with broader issues of moral engagement and skill cultivation essential for contemporary citizenship, including critical thinking, empathy, and intercultural communication. World literature offers a fertile ground where complex narratives are woven, intersected, and sometimes conflicted. Engaging with these narratives not only enhance our understanding of different cultural perspectives but also leads us to reflect on the ethical implications of actions and motivations portrayed.

It is my argument that, in our increasingly interconnected and globalized world, reading world literary narratives is more important and relevant than ever. In this light, by examining the connections of literature, ethics, and the complexities of contemporary global landscape, I advocate for the role of reading that cultivates future citizens that are empathetic and deeply aware of nuanced perspectives on social issues and related ethical responsibilities.

Associate Professor Suradech Chotiudompant, PhD, has been teaching in the Department of Comparative Literature, Chulalongkorn University, for two decades. He has published widely in the fields of comparative literature, cultural studies, and contemporary Thai literature with a monograph on Gabriel García Márquez’s magical realist fiction and a textbook on the historical development of literary theory in the 20th century. His research interests include literary theory, magical realism, and contemporary world literature.