수용자의 해석과 설화의 다층적 의미 -〈박장군과 이무기〉설화의 해석을 중심으로

Abstract

This paper examines the various interpretations of the folktale named Park Jang-goon and Imoogi by critically analyzing the reports of younger generation who appreciated the story. The folktale is a story about "Park Jang-goon" living in a village which almost got flooded because "Imoogi" blocked the river. By shooting an arrow, Park Jang-goon could make Imoogi leave and keep the village safe. Since then, Park Jang-goon kept his eyes on its revenge. Nevertheless, Park Jang-goon was eventually killed because of the incident. According to academic analysis, this folktale includes not only the mythical sanctity of the water-diety(Imoogi), but also the legendary tragedy of the hero(Park Jang-goon)'s death. The young appreciators have many different opinions for the story. Usually they interpret the messages which the story carries, from the perspective of an anthropocentric values, which shows a change in the young appreciators' perception of the mythical thinking. That is, these days, Imoogi is not considered to be a sacred water-deity any more. Many appreciators pointed it out that Mr. Park's death had resulted from his violence against the Imoogi; also it taught us to be considerate of the powerless minorities in society, in case of a conflict between the public good of majority and the needs of minority. Such interpretations of the story effectively teach us lessons about solving the problems in our modern society. By the way, the other appreciator supposed that general Park's death had not come from the revenge of Imoogi, but it had been caused by his nagging anxiety neurosis which had became strongly obsessional through out his lifetime. This supposition let us realize the importance of healing for psychological trauma, and the usefulness of literature therapy, as well. In conclusion, with this study, it is proved again that the folktales still have classic values by modern bearers to interpret, which can create new and serious messages for now.