〈전우치전〉의 여성 재현 방식과 의미

Abstract

This study examines the representation of female characters in “Jeon Woochi-Jeon.” It aims to reveal the reality of women reflected in the work and to trace the perception of women that “Jeon Woochi-Jeon” conveys. In the narrative, women’s sexuality, lacking social protection, is portrayed as something that can be exploited to satisfy someone’s desires. Women in entertainment spaces are depicted as objects displayed to enhance the prestige of male gatherings and as targets of sexual exploitation to heighten amusement. For women of noble families, their chastity is seen not as a social ethical duty but as a weakness to be exploited by their husbands. The perception of such women is primarily revealed through Jeon Woo-chi, an unconventional figure who made a name for himself with his abilities despite lacking academic legitimacy or official status. Because he was involved in rebellion and perceived as someone who needed to be controlled by power, it was impossible for him to form and sustain a lineage. The fact that Jeon Woo-chi, who could not escape a family-centered perspective, had no marriage prospects became a backdrop for objectifying and instrumentalizing all women except his mother. Therefore, he focused more on jealousy than adultery and took issue with women’s actions. He regarded the need to correct men’s desire to control sexuality as a problem, rather than the unchecked sexuality of women. Jeon Woochi and his world in “Jeon Woochi-Jeon” thoroughly illuminate female characters from a male perspective. In the process of mocking existing power, women also became easily utilized as tools and targets of ridicule. Objectified women’s bodies, instrumentalized female sexuality, and chastity as a weakness became materials for Jeon Woochi to showcase his dazzling talents in his adventures. Violent perceptions of female sexuality serve as the fodder for base laughter during the subversion of authority and order and the process of exhilarating revenge.