「정토」의 ‘주제학’적 연구

Abstract

Kim Sang-ryeol's short story, "Jungto" (or Paradise) reflects the process of finding the true meaning of Buddhism in the life of pain and anguish. The true image of Buddha can be found in the condition of non-possession that is free from obsession and anguish and that seeks to save the people on the basis of Mahayana Buddhism as well. This article makes a close analysis of "Jungto" by applying the theory of thematics. The constituting elements of the theme, characters, story & plot motifs, and motivations have been analyzed. In terms of the plot, bound motifs and free motifs are well mixed in the work, and especially the free motifs contribute to supporting the ideological theme and the aesthetic structure of the work. The author makes an elaborate use of the three kinds of motivation. 'Paradise,' 'Peace Inn,' and 'Mireuk Hermitage' as compositional motivation function as symbolic images by being presented as a title or main motifs. Aesthetic or artistic motivation for lively and realistic description is applied to depict the inner conflict of the afflicted people, a ward and the appearance of the ailing wife. Realistic motivation gives probability and universal reality to the protagonist's process of achieving awakening through agony and pity.