<육미당기>의 서사 구조와 가부장의 성장

Abstract

Yukmidanggi[六美堂記] is a fiction made by combining several independent narratives. Many studies have been focused on the original stories and narrative structure of this fiction. However, the principle of composition which encompasses entire sub-narratives, has not been sufficiently identified. In this essay, I will analyze the narrative structure of Yukmidanggi in the perspective of 'growth of the patriarch'. It is possible to find the principle of the growth of the patriarch in the sense of purpose and the composition of the sub-narratives. Yukmidanggi consists of two narrative axes; a narrative of departure-return and a narrative of romance. These two narrative axes show how the protagonist grows into a patriarch in different level. In the narrative of departure-return, the protagonist, Soseon[簫仙], grows into a heir of patriarchal right. Soseon, the prince of Silla[新羅] is defeated by his bastard brother and left his homeland, losing the right to inherit the throne. The task given to Soseon is to get back the status of a legitimate heir. For that, he must acquire stronger strength and legitimacy than his brother. The romance in China functions for it. As a result of this narrative, Soseon defeats his brother and becomes the king of Silla. In the narrative of romance, Soseon acquires power in relation to women. This narrative is a combination of three stories. Following each story, the status and leadership of male and female characters are reversed step by step. While the status of Soseon rises from blind beggar to high-ranking official, the status of female characters decreases from a princess to an orphan in distress. In addition, Soseon’s position changes from following women's choice to influencing women's survival, while women character’s position fall from leading Soseon to relying on Soseon for survival. As a result, Soseon completes the patriarch's paradise Yukmidang.