송양공에 대한 『동주열국지』의 재해석 - 송양공에 대한 평가와 수사 기법을 중심으로 -

Abstract

This paper focuses on the depiction of Song Xiangong in The Chronicles of the Eastern Zhou Kingdoms (Dongzhou Lieguo Zhi) and analyzes the evaluation of his character as well as the rhetorical techniques used. Song Xiangong, who has traditionally received contrasting evaluations, is examined within the literary context of Dongzhou Lieguo Zhi to understand the criteria by which he is assessed and the main rhetorical devices employed to portray his image. In conclusion, Dongzhou Lieguo Zhi depicts Song Xiangong as a figure who pursues benevolence and hegemony but fails due to his inability to balance virtue and power. Techniques such as contrast and irony are used to highlight his false benevolence and incompetence, leading readers to perceive him negatively and view his failure as inevitable. By examining the character of Song Xiangong as depicted and evaluated in Dongzhou Lieguo Zhi, this study also contributes to understanding Feng Menglong's thoughts on the qualifications of a ruler through the literary reinterpretation of historical records.