According to the second Farr extract (p.50-59), how did Hergé research China for ‘The Blue Lotus’?
He searched for pictures of the “real China” and used them as basis of his scenes. The detail goes so far as to have posters in the background of scenes written in Chinese that actually say things like; “Down with Imperialism!” and “Electric Workshop Siemens.” Hergé also sketched the poses and activities everyday Chinese people did. Like a painter he studied the architecture and dress of the Chinese.
His biggest influence was a new Chinese friend, called Chang who informed him of China’s history and politics. Chang also introduced him to Chinese poetry which would’ve give Hergé an insight into the social and spiritual life of Chinese people.
Seeing this other side of the Chinese people it would’ve been hard to continue writing and drawing them in a stereotypical manner. Hergé also used real events within ‘The Blue Lotus’, such as the Moukden Railway Incident, and with astonishing accuracy, accidentally predicted real events to come.
Cheers! :)
ReplyDeleteYou did say that Chang introduced China to him and allowed him to have the true picture of China, besides the posters in the street. Good work.
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