『源氏物語』에 나타난 ‘月光’ 표현과 作意

Abstract

The expressions of 'moonlight' in The Tale of Genji can be categorized into threetypes by their usages. The first is a simple description of the sentiment or the tabooof it. The second is a metaphor for the feelings of love between men and womenand the personal relationships between characters. And the third is the symbol ofthe royal authority. This study tries to determine a theme and a plot of the storyby carrying out research on the usages of the expression of 'moonlight'. In Yadorigimaki, Nioumiya and Nyobo prohibit Nakanokimi from looking atmoonlight. However, Nakanokimi has been looking at the moon wistfully whenNioumiya, her husband is to marry the daughter of Yuugiri. Nakanokimi would spoilher face while looking at the moonlight with sorrow. The meetings of Genji and Yuugao, Wakamurasaki, Suetsumuhana,Oborotsukiyo, Hanachirusato, and Akashinokimi are depicted by the expressions ofmoonlight. However, there was no mention of the moonlight on the night ofcommitting adultery between Hujitsubo and Genji, Onnnasannomiya and Kashiwagi. Moonlight or sunlight is a symbol of the authority of the kings or the emperors. Moonlight is a metaphor for Hikarugenji as a guardian, similarly Prince ofAkashinyogo and Reizei Emperor are likened to sunlight. To determine the usage of the expression of moonlight in The Tale of Genji, isto examine the theme of the Monogatari. It can be said that such metaphoricalexpressions of moonlight refer to a taboo, implications of male female relationships,and symbols of royal authority. They are the leading themes of the Monogatari ina manner that looks ahead. In other words, the expressions of moonlight in TheTale of Genji can be understood as an aesthetic sense, harmonizing naturalphenomena and the personal relationships, and as a symbol that has been categorized.