Southeast Asian Studies Podcast - Epistemology of the Past: Texts, History, and Intellectuals of Cambodia, 1855–1970

In this episode of Southeast Asian Studies, Theara Thun speaks about his new book Epistemology of the Past: Texts, History, and Intellectuals of Cambodia, 1855–1970 (University of Hawaii Press, 2024), which explores the evolution of Cambodian historiography, from traditional royal chronicles to modern histories influenced by Western methods and French colonial scholars. It highlights the contributions of Khmer, French, and Thai intellectuals to modern Cambodian historical writing, revealing the persistence of indigenous traditions in contemporary forms. 

This episode was produced by NYSEAN partner the New Books Network.