공맹의 즐거움과 음악, 그리고 여민동락

Abstract

This paper starts with the observation that all humans pursue joy and love to play by nature. The first goal of this study is to reveal that joy derived from human nature is the basis and source of music. And the second goal is to derive from the ideas of Confucius and Mencius that music can be established as a medium for integrating society. There are many previous studies on the music theory of Confucius and Confucianism. However, it is difficult to find previous studies that consistently proved the relationship between human nature and joy and that pleasure is the basis of music. This study will carry out a philosophical work to investigate the music theory of Confucius from the perspective of human nature starting with the clue of joy. In Confucianism, humans seek human joy by nature. From the ruler's point of view, human joy is the best way to unite all the people. And art such as poetry, painting, dance, and singing that can show joy in accordance with human nature is an excellent medium for releasing and encouraging human emotions. Confucius and Mencius consistently argued that “music comes from joy by human nature, and music is more enjoyable when enjoyed with all the people,” laying the foundation for Confucian art and expanding its social function. Music theories of Confucius and Mencius had a profound influence on the music and festivals of Joseon dynasty.