The ‘Asian Venice’: perception of Siam through the first Russian travelers’ eyes

Abstract

This thesis examines the nuances of Russian travelers’ perception of Siam during the 19th and early 20th centuries, shedding light on a less explored side of Russian-Siamese relations, that is Russian travelogues. Drawing upon the theoretical frameworks of Orientalism and interpretative modalities, this thesis defines the multifaceted "gazes" through which Siam was viewed, ranging from naive observations to scholarly analyses. By analysis of travelogues, diplomatic correspondences, and memoirs, the study uncovers a fragmented landscape of different perceptions, reasons for which could be concluded as a lack of direct contact, an absence of institutionalized Southeast Asian studies, as well as of colonial aspirations. Despite occasional Orientalist undertones, Russian interest in Siam remained generally positive, driven by curiosity and intellectual exchange rather than commercial or missionary motives. In conclusion, this study illuminates the complex interplay of perspectives that shaped Russian perceptions of Siam. By unraveling the intricacies of these fragmented viewpoints, previously under-studied, it offers an insight into the dynamics of Russian-Siamese relations through the lens of Orientalism, and argues for the existence of “Russian Orientalism”.