‘광인’을 만들고 고치기: 윤대성 〈신화 1900〉에 나타난 정신병리적 상상력

Abstract

This essay aims to explore the psychopathological imagination in Yoon Dae-sung's Myth 1900(1982). In the play, mental illness is depicted not merely as an affliction caused by individual attributes, but as suffering stemming from an unjust societal structure. The characters, referred to as "madmen," are stigmatized and excluded from society by institutionalized power. Kim Ki-chang, the protagonist, embodies post-traumatic stress disorder, illustrating the psychological and physical symptoms that result from prolonged subordination to oppression. He gains insight into the absurdity of the power structure and establishes a new conviction to disrupt the vicious cycle of violence in the surplus reality of the psychodrama. The denouement, in which Kim still remains unaccepted by the community even after recovering from his illness, indicates that the underlying issue resides in the dichotomy between “normal” and “abnormal,” rather than in mental illness itself. In summary, Myth 1900 holds present significance across three dimensions. Firstly, it underscores the necessity of rebuilding bonds with the community for trauma recovery. Secondly, it challenges the concept of normality by refusing to converge on a narrative of overcoming disease. Lastly, it urges an ontological transformation toward sharing painful memories and expanding the sphere of solidarity and community.