1. Introduction to the text
The early 20th century marked a significant period in the development of modern Korean literature. As the country navigated the challenges of Japanese colonial rule, literature emerged as a powerful medium for expressing cultural identity, social critique, and national aspirations. This era witnessed the birth of new literary movements, genres, and pioneering writers who shaped the trajectory of Korean literature.
2. Vocabulary
| Korean Word | Romanization | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 문학 | munhak | literature |
| 소설 | sosel | novel |
| 시 | si | poetry |
| 현실주의 | hyeonsiljuui | realism |
| 민족의식 | minjogeuisik | national consciousness |
| 계몽 | gyemong | enlightenment |
| 항일운동 | hangil undong | anti-Japanese movement |
| 식민지 | singminji | colony |
| 저항 | jeoang | resistance |
| 해방 | haebang | liberation |
3. The main text in both Korean and English
20세기 초반, 한국 문학은 일본 식민 지배 아래에서 새로운 국면을 맞이했다.
In the early 20th century, Korean literature entered a new phase under Japanese colonial rule.
작가들은 민족의식과 저항정신을 바탕으로 현실주의 작품을 창작했다.
Writers produced realist works imbued with national consciousness and a spirit of resistance.
이 시기의 대표적인 작가로는 이광수, 최서해, 김동인 등이 있다.
Notable writers of this period include Lee Gwang-su, Choi Seo-hae, and Kim Dong-in.
그들은 소설과 시를 통해 민족의 고통과 열망을 표현했다.
Through novels and poetry, they expressed the suffering and aspirations of the nation.
계몽운동과 항일운동도 문학에 큰 영향을 미쳤다.
The enlightenment and anti-Japanese movements also significantly influenced literature.
작품들은 식민지 현실을 비판하고 민족 해방을 염원했다.
Their works criticized the colonial reality and yearned for national liberation.
새로운 문학 장르와 형식이 등장하면서 한국 문학은 현대화되었다.
With the emergence of new literary genres and forms, Korean literature modernized.
이 시기는 한국 문학이 민족의 정체성과 독립 의지를 드러내는 중요한 시기였다.
This period was crucial for Korean literature to express the nation’s identity and aspirations for independence.
4. Reading comprehension questions
1. What was the historical context that influenced the development of modern Korean literature in the early 20th century?
2. What were some of the prominent themes and subjects explored by writers during this period?
3. Name a few notable writers from this era and briefly describe their contributions.
4. How did the enlightenment and anti-Japanese movements impact Korean literature?
5. Explain the significance of this period in shaping the modern identity and direction of Korean literature.
5. Cultural and historical notes
The rise of modern Korean literature in the early 20th century was deeply intertwined with the country’s struggle against Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945). Writers used literature as a means of preserving cultural identity, voicing resistance, and advocating for independence. Works of this period often depicted the harsh realities of colonial life, explored themes of national consciousness and liberation, and experimented with new literary forms and styles.