The Fundamental Studies Concerning Classical Chinese Literature and the Associated Compilation of Texts with Collected Commentaries during the Reign of Sejong

Abstract

This study explores the level of sohak (minor learning) and philology, or fundamental studies, related to classical Chinese literature which was prevalent during the Sejong period, and examines how this level was reflected in the nature of annotated editions (of the Classics) and the way in which works became classified as Classics via the publication of collected commentaries. It also looks at the fact that the parallel structure was considered an important factor when compiling classical Chinese literature, which led to this parallel structure being adopted in Korean verses too. In terms of compilation methodology, the books published during Sejong’s reign were all based on a number of specific principles, but we can find a variety of different features in the compilation of the different books. This study closely examines such differences by investigating a number of methodologies used in compilation of the Seokbo sangjeol, the Worin cheongang ji gok, the Worin seokbo, Hunmi jeongeum haeryebon, Yongbi eocheon ga, and so many publications during the Sejong’s reign.