비목적론적 미학의 인본주의: 존 스타인벡의 생쥐와 인간

Abstract

A Study on the Humanism of Non-Teleological Aestheticsin John Steinbeck's Of Mice and MenCheebok HwangThe purpose of this study is to examine John Steinbeck's non-theological theory represented in his earlier works, particularly in Of Mice and Men. Steinbeck's early stories set in the California valleys he knew so well. All through his life he had an interest in the workings of the natural world, which is reflected in his works. In 1932, Steinbeck came to know Edward F. Ricketts, a marine biologist, philosopher, and ecologist, who became one of his closest friends and collaborators. Steinbeck's philosopher of life was influenced by him. In The Log from the Sea of Cortez, Steinbeck discusses the notion of non-teleological thinking, which he essentially defines as 'seeing things as they are'. His non-teleological thinking is explained through the non-teleologist characters in his early works. Reading his work, I realized that his view of man has gone through a change from the naturalistic view of man to the humanistic view of man. Also his characters were mostly victims under the control of their inner or outer limitations. He dealt with men as animals. In Of Mice and Men, Steinbeck is interested in the non-teleologist's life. He seems to be concerned with how the pure and innocent will survive in an uncomprehending world. Paradoxically speaking, Steinbeck insists that they should not be ruined by civilized society. They have a love for natural life with primitive thinking. They are truly a part of nature. In the end, the non-teleological thinking is a peculiar and unique idea in Steinbeck's literary world.