『金甁梅』와 영화 ｢시카고｣의 ‘미녀에 의한 살인’ 서사 비교

Abstract

Ban Jin-Lian, the heroine of Ming dynasty novel “JinPingmei”, and Roxy, the heroine of the movie “Chicago”, were not punished for their crimes due to their beautiful appearance, despite clear evidence of their involvement in a man's murder. They are exceptional beauties who conform to the standards of beauty established by a male-dominated society. Men coveted their sexual appeal, and the public's attention was captivated by them. In the vulnerable position of women within traditional society, they actively utilized their beauty. They knew how to manipulate powerful and capable men through their attractiveness and sex appeal. Moreover, they were resolute in their desires and pursued them. Here, these two beauties face a contradiction. Externally, they meet the aesthetic criteria set by a male-centered society, but internally, they resist the norms of traditional society and strive to remain true to their own desires. Both Jin-Lian and Roxy refuse to conform to the role of submissive wives. They demand more rights than what is permitted in a male-dominated society and openly express their sexual desires. From the perspective of men, these women are seen as “destroyers of order” and the “roots of evil.” Positioned in opposition to the sacred and sublime ideal of the “mother”, these women are simultaneously desired and feared. Their actions are perceived to have had an impact, and this is where their individual coldness and cruelty contribute to the creation of a “beautiful devil” character.