유몽인의 <풍악기우기(楓嶽奇遇記)> 연구

Abstract

<Pung-akgiugi>, included in the “Miscellaneous Writings[雜 著]” section of 『Eoujip』 Book 6, is a work written by Yu Mong in based on his visit to Mount Geumgang in 1622-1623. While adopting the form of ‘gi(記)’, a factual record, the work uniquely features fictional narratives with personified natural elements of Mount Geumgang. The work is structured in four parts: introduction, entrance, banquet, and conclusion, similar to but subtly different from traditional Mongyu-rok or Jeongi novels. Yu particularly emphasized the entrance section, meticulously crafting characters through consistent use of polysemous words and historical allusions. The work’s creation period is particularly significant. While expressing the protagonist’s melancholy and consolation, it deliberately omits explanations of the circumstances. During this time, Yu Mong-in faced not only physical crisis due to illness but also political persecution from both the Northern faction and the forces behind the Injo Restoration. Consequently, Yu deliberately omitted sections for debate and poetry that might have revealed his opinions and emotions about his unfortunate circumstances. <Pung-akgiugi> represents the convergence of Yu’s unique literary style, political circumstances, and Mount Geumgang’s majestic landscape. The work stands as the result of careful negotiation between revelation and subtlety, serving as an example of literature’s consolatory function. Furthermore, while it can be examined within the context of dream-journey literature and classical novels, it contributes to the diversity of Korean literature through its connection to actual mountain-climbing experiences.