Symbolism in Han Kang’s The Vegetarian: A Focus on Violence and Redemption

Abstract

Violence and suffering form the central axis of Han Kang’s literary world. Through depictions of violence, she explores the essence of human existence and humanity while contemplating ways to overcome it. The Vegetarian stands as the genesis of this literary exploration, confronting the interplay between violence, desire, and transformation. The novel portrays Yeong-hye, who rejects meat consumption and aspires to shed her humanity through a process of “becoming-plant,” her brother-in-law, tormented between the most sublime beauty and grotesque desire, and In-hye, burdened by caregiving and paralyzed by helplessness in the face of misunderstanding. Through these figures, Han exposes the raw brutality of human nature while reflecting on the existential inescapability of violence. Rich symbolism enhances Han’s lyrical prose and serves as a labyrinth of connections, organically linking the novel’s three parts and evoking the tragedy of human existence. Among the major motifs, a white-eye, winged things, and the mother bird embody the tragic lives of Yeong-hye, In-hye, and In-hye’s husband, respectively. These symbols function as vehicles to expose both the violent essence of humanity and the fragile possibility of transcending it. This study conducts an in-depth textual analysis, focusing on the symbolism of birds alongside other key motifs such as the face of the beast, the Mongolian mark, uterine hemorrhage, and flaming trees. By examining these elements, this paper offers a deeper perspective on violence and redemption, contributing to a more nuanced and profound understanding of The Vegetarian and its existential themes.