왕과 충신의 갈림길에서 ― 주공을 기억하는 문헌들 ―

Abstract

This study conducts a hermeneutical analysis aimed at unraveling the identity of the Duke of Zhou by delving into a “Jinteng” story from the recently acquired bamboo manuscripts held by Qinghua University. Dating back to the late 4th century BCE, the Qinghua “Jinteng” manuscript bears a striking resemblance to the “Jinteng” chapter in the received Shangshu. However, it presents the possibility of a significantly different interpretation, particularly in terms of vocabulary, sentence structure, and the narrative dimension of the story. Embarking on an exploration, I delve into diverse depictions of the Duke of Zhou as recollected by members of communities spanning from the pre-Qin era to the Eastern Han dynasty. This journey involves a meticulous analysis of texts associated with the “Jinteng” narrative. The portrayal of the Duke of Zhou, as etched in the collective memory of people during the Western Zhou dynasty, underwent a profound metamorphosis in the wake of the Warring States period. At times, he is reminisced as a king, while at others, he assumes the role of a faithful subject. This fluctuating portrayal reflects the dynamic interplay of collective memory selectively interpreted and reconstructed by community members across different epochs to align with their contextual agendas. During the tumultuous Warring States period, intellectuals transmitted the “Jinteng” story while reflecting on revered sages of the past, intertwining with a historical milieu grappling with contemporaneous challenges. This era marked a pivotal moment characterized by the breakdown of hereditary succession and political authority, alongside the emergence of new governance models. The narrative within the Qinghua “Jinteng” manuscript, conveyed by anonymous figures, likely played a significant role in shaping contemporary discussions on legitimacy. It potentially served as a compelling model within the prevailing discourse on governance, particularly regarding the concept of royal abdication in favor of worthy men. This idea proposed that merit and virtue, rather than royal lineage, should determine ascendancy to the throne, offering an alternative to traditional succession practices. In essence, the manuscript's narrative may have provided a framework for reconsidering leadership paradigms, emphasizing meritocracy amidst the evolving political landscape challenging established notions of royal authority and fostering the emergence of new governance ideologies.