Faculty Sponsor(s)
Peter Richardson
Location
Jereld R. Nicholson Library
Subject Area
Modern Languages
Description
The projects seeks to determine why Alexandra David-Néel played such an influential role in the development of Buddhism in France. Alexandra's scholarship and experience with Tibetan culture allowed her to be a source of authority on Buddhism and Buddhism practices. The language she utilizes to describe Tibet romanticized it adding to the shroud of mystery already surrounding the closed country. Her descriptions of Buddhist practices were simple making the religion accessible to the people of France. Her description of magical abilities some monks and lamas processed added a level of exoticism that helped pique interest as well. David-Néel’s portrayal of Tibet furthered its mysticism in France. This inspired an interest in Tibet and Buddhism in general that spurred the popularity of Buddhism in France today.
Recommended Citation
Orr, Lauren, "Alexandra David-Néel: A Pioneer of Buddhism in France" (2015). Linfield University Student Symposium: A Celebration of Scholarship and Creative Achievement. Event. Submission 12.
https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/symposium/2015/all/12
Alexandra David-Néel: A Pioneer of Buddhism in France
Jereld R. Nicholson Library
The projects seeks to determine why Alexandra David-Néel played such an influential role in the development of Buddhism in France. Alexandra's scholarship and experience with Tibetan culture allowed her to be a source of authority on Buddhism and Buddhism practices. The language she utilizes to describe Tibet romanticized it adding to the shroud of mystery already surrounding the closed country. Her descriptions of Buddhist practices were simple making the religion accessible to the people of France. Her description of magical abilities some monks and lamas processed added a level of exoticism that helped pique interest as well. David-Néel’s portrayal of Tibet furthered its mysticism in France. This inspired an interest in Tibet and Buddhism in general that spurred the popularity of Buddhism in France today.
