설학(雪壑) 이대기(李大期)의 유배와 「백령도지(白翎島誌)」

Abstract

This paper is an in-depth study on Baengnyeongdoji, a geographical book by Lee Dae-gi (1551-1628). Lee Dae-gi was a Confucian scholar from the Nammyeong School who was exiled to Baengnyeong Island in the West Sea. He abandoned his official position and went into exile after the death of Prince Yeongchang in 1614, taking refuge with like-minded scholars, including Tonggye Jeong Un (1569-1641) and Yeongyang Mun Gyeong-ho (1556-1619), who opposed the corrupt government of Daebuk (大北) and the policies of Yeongsu Jung In-hong. Supporting these scholars eventually led to his exile to Baengnyeong Island in 1620. During that time, the Nammyeong School faced severe internal conflict and division due to disputes over political stances caused by the corrupt government and policies of the time, resulting in divided public sentiment and personal loyalties. Though exiled due to the tumultuous state of affairs, Lee Dae-gi viewed his exile as clear proof of his origins and principles, and, therefore, he did not complain or lament. Instead, he found comfort and contentment. After his exile, Lee Dae-gi recognized the strategic importance of Baengnyeong Island as a crucial geographical and strategic location. However, he noticed a lack of records and information on the island. Based on the reports he received, he compiled a comprehensive geographical account of Baengnyeong Island titled Baengnyeongdoji. Baengnyeongdoji covers various aspects of the island, such as its location; distance; incidents of pirate raids; legends; current situation; the significance of defense facilities; the establishment of Baengnyeongjin; historical envoys to the island; reflections on economic changes; the work of the people living on Haerangdo Island; neighboring islands like Dojeondo, Daecheongdo, and Socheongdo; topography; sea routes; raising horses; fishing; plant life; livelihoods; local customs; geography; climate; wells; water quality; ghost worship and shamanism; decadent customs; and the use of timber and medicinal plants like Sanggiseng (桑寄生) and HongDeokhwi (洪德輝), the mulberry tree on Daecheongdo Island. In sum, Baengnyeongdoji is a lengthy 2,866-character geographical record covering diverse aspects of Baengnyeong Island. This study demonstrates that Baengnyeongdoji holds significance and value as the first privately compiled literary geographic account that comprehensively covers the various aspects of Baengnyeong Island. Additionally, the work stands out from the general format of geographical records by incorporating the author's personal reflections and literary style. The research findings of this paper can contribute to the study of the local folk history and geography of Baengnyeong Island and offer insights into the life and work of Lee Dae-gi. Furthermore, the regional and cultural studies presented in this paper can contribute to understanding the significance of Baengnyeongdoji as a unique and valuable literary geographic account of the island.