韓⋅中 고전문학 속에 보이는 여성과 이름(人名)

Abstract

This paper delves into the significance of the names of female characters from Korean and Chinese classical literature. In both realms of literature, their names play a role in establishing them as characters, unfolding a particular narrative, and introducing the central idea of the works they appear in. A woman’s personhood is encapsulated in her name: it reflects her appearance, figure, character, and identity. It even reflects the central theme of the story. Moreover, with a change in her name, the literary works suggest a shift in her inner self or the external situations that affect her. Some female characters have distinct sobriquets; these names vividly and effectively demonstrate their personalities and characteristics. Beyond their usage in self-identification, these names also become vital elements for an in-depth understanding of these texts. Also, the name reflects her bleak life under suppression and her lower social status in a patriarchal society. Yet, some nameless female characters overcome such social constraints and demonstrate their potential and human virtues; they provide female readers room for imagination and fulfill the aspirations of the readers- becoming protagonists and showing their flair. As stated, the name of a female character in classical literature is not merely a subject of scholarly analysis. Instead, it is a window to the mental world of the author who painstakingly endeavors to devise it. Thus, the author projects expectations and hopes about the characters one creates into their names; their names become perfect representations of one’s literary works as well.