象形性에 의한 중국 문자 의미 분류에 관하여 -≪說文解字≫의 예를 중심으로

Abstract

This paper aims to clarify the feature of the Chinese characters, which is considered as the ideography. When it comes to the Chinese characters, it has been emphasized the characters’ ideographic features. This viewpoint does not properly explain the multi-faceted qualities of Chinese characters. I propose to point out that one must accurately understand the phonetic characteristics and semantic context hidden behind the mask of ideographs, and the process of subordination of phonography to ideography. The formation of meanings in Chinese characters does not rely solely on either the semantic links of ideographs or on speech-based phonetic symbols. In general, if we regard the function of writing as mere recording of speech, this view limits too narrowly the meanings generated through display of writing. This is especially true of Chinese writing which keeps some distance from an exact recording of what was spoken. We must pay attention to the multiple facets exhibited throughout the history of Chinese writing and its interpretation. This paper tries to research the categorization of meaning of the Chinese characters based on the ideography which was understood to have a priority over the phonography by the Xushen's Shuowenjiezi in Han dynasty.