退修齋 李炳鯤의 삶과 한시 연구

Abstract

Toesujae Lee Byung-gon (1882-1948) was a traditional Confucian scholar who lived during a turbulent time when new cultural influences surged due to Western powers, and Japan took advantage of this vulnerability. This paper exam ines the literary aspect of Toesujae's poetry works, which were recognized early on for their literary achievements by Shim Jae Jo Geung-seop, by capturing the overall thematic patterns and their characteristics. Firstly, the poetry of Toesujae inherits the literary style of Zhu Xi's moral poetry and the traditional Confucian scholar's poetic tradition, delving into the teachings of sagehood and attempting to embody the profound meanings of Confucian classics in daily life. Accordingly, he was relatively passive in his creation of poetry appreciating leisurely moments, yet he used it as a tool to reflect on himself an his thoughts, and dedicate himself to scholarly pursuits and self-cultivation whenever there was a special occasion. Secondly, Toesujae had a keen interest in Korean and East Asian history and was well-versed in these subjects. Notable works include 「Invoking the Souls of Three Scholars」 (招三學士魂), written in the form of a invocation (招魂辭), 12 poems known as 「Zhu Zhi Ci」 (竹枝詞), and elegies like 「Man Shi」 (挽詩) borrowed from Kim Ji-seop's Prison Poems (獄中詩). Toesujae, who had a keen interest in history, exemplified reflections on history, the spirit of devotion to the nation, and a strong sense of loyalty and duty towards the country amidst the historical realities of the Japanese colonial era. These aspects hold significant value as they provide insight into Toesujae's anti-Japanese consciousness during his time. Thirdly, in Toesujae's poetry, his retreat and contemplation in rural settings express a life of self-sufficiency and leisure in countryside living, adhering to established norms and conforming to the fate of the times and heaven as typical of traditional Confucian scholars. However, within these contexts, rather than singing about the leisure and pleasures of life, he reflects on the rigorous rural life and landscapes, and takes a cautionary stance against indulging excessively in worldly pleasures even when singing about the scenic beauty of mountains and waters. His enthusiasm for the creation of poetry displayed in over 300 works, understanding various styles of poetry, profound knowledge of past poets, and affection for poems on history all confirm his status as poet who cannot be overlooked in the history of late Joseon. Through his poetry, we can see his conscientiousness and sincerity as a traditional Confucian scholar in the provinces during the Japanese colonial era, as well as his keen insight into current affairs. We can also glimpse his efforts to maintain the literary value and continuity of traditional poetry.