조귀명의 우열관과 산문의 특성에 관하여

Abstract

As an attempt to understand the principles behind Cho Kwi-Myŏng’s literary world, this paper analyzes the author's perspective on superiority and inferiority, its relation to his literary theory and thought, and its influence upon his prose works. The observations are as follows: Cho Kwi-Myŏng attempted to reach the vision of equality by free mind transcending a secular view on the order of things. Through such process, one discovers superiority hidden inside inferior things and a complementary relationship between superior things and inferior things, and sees a transition between them. This perspective can be related to the Yangming school of thought where free mind’s ability to acquire truth is emphasized, and also his literary theory that hopes to resolve the inequalities between ancient and modern ages and firmly advocates freedom of writers. This perspective is also reflected in his original prose works. In works dealing with the relationship between the natural and the artificial, their ordinary hierarchy is deconstructed, leading to novel themes and figures. Works dealing with Hua-Yi distinction leads to humorous and ironical praise of Yun Yong’s work. And finally, in the mental process of reaching the plain of enlightment beyond distinction, the rhetoric of ‘accentuation’ is used.