한국 해양소설의 현 단계와 전망, 그 복된 짐

Abstract

There is not much difference between the literary meaning of maritime novels and that of general literature. The difference that exists, however, lies in the dissimilarity in expressing the spirit of literature and the vindication of universal humanism. So far, Jules Verne's novels have earned an prominent place in the field of maritime novels, as we recognize it to be so. A new set of understanding, however, is necessary if we take into account that the sea in Verne’s masterpieces is not the actual sea itself, but a sea that has been interpreted. In reality, his maritime novels has been written under a significant premise of 'What is real is imaginary' (L'imaginarie c'est le real), and the main themes of his books were journeys, scientific discoveries and establishments of colonies. The problem lies in that those premises and themes have justified a rationale for the imperialism of his period. This perception questions his novel's high reputation and requires a new approach in understanding maritime novels. So far, our maritime novels have been overly biased in its perception of the sea. Therefore, we have paid little attention to the diverse aspects that maritime novels have demonstrated. Main characteristics pertaining only to the maritime novels have been largely overlooked, and complex and multi-layered relationships reflected in the pieces were dealt with ease. Many lives arise at the point where man and sea meet, but with the eyes that we used to look at 'terra firme', we may not fully perceive them. Moreover, those lives may not remain as it is, but transform anew our inner life. This research focused on the problems of our maritime novels that have concentrated heavily on the writer's neighborhood or experience over the sea. These problems are burdens that we can't escape from, but also a start point where we could explore diverse paths of development. Through those efforts, the research did not fail to discuss on the current state of our maritime novels. It also distinguishes maritime novel's unique literary aspect by reviewing few pieces worthy of special attention. Eventually, the research intended to provide an opportunity to systematically and completely reflect the life that has been endowed by our cultural tradition and history that have begotten maritime novels.