朝鮮英祖與中國“三大奇書”

Abstract

Examining the extensive accounts in Seungjeongwonilgi (承政院日記, Journal of the Royal Secretariat)—the first-hand records of the political life of the Joseon royal family, this paper explores King Yeongjo(英祖)’s reading and reception of the Chinese novels known as the “Three Great Masterworks” —Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Water Margin, and Journey to the West. This paper finds that King Yeongjo held a life-long identification with Romance of the Three Kingdoms from his youth to the end of his life, as shown in both his overall recognition of the novel’s value and the frequent, sometimes indirect, association to the novel triggered in daily life or in his discussion with the imperial officials over historical figures and imperial politics. Under his influence, the officials also often alluded to the characters and plots of the novel during their conversation with the King when they read and studied Confucian classics together at the Gyeongyeon (經筵, impe rial court lectures) throughout the Yeongjo dynasty. The King and his officials even carried out literary studies of the logic of the characters’ actions in the novel. King Yeongjo also had profound knowledge of and a deep interest in Water Margin, which had a certain impact on his dealing with state affairs. The King was somewhat sympathetic with the people participated in mass uprisings and ordered to end the uprisings by offering amnesty and enlisting to the rebels. His acceptance of Water Margin is more complicated, however, as he was equally alerted to the novel’s negative demonstration effect as a threat to the ruling power. King Yeongjo was also familiar with the novel Journey to the West. In summary, King Yeongjo’s extensive reading and reception of the Chinese “Three Great Masterworks” provide a unique and interesting case that will enhance our understanding of the dissemination of Chinese classical novels in Korea.