운와 홍중성의 산문론과 비평적 특질 ― 산문의 기능적 전용과 ‘變’의 논리를 중심으로 ―

초록

This study aims to systematically investigate the prose theory and critical characteristics of Hong Joong-seong(pen name Unwa, 1668–1735), a prominent literary figure of the late Joseon Dynasty. While Hong accepted the writings of the Eight Great Masters of the Tang and Song Dynasties as orthodox models, he also emphasized acquiring dynamic works from Pre-Qin archaic prose, exemplified by the Zhuangzi and the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji). In particular, Hong cautioned against the rigid adherence to conventional forms in prose composition. Instead, he advocated the logic of Byeon(變, transformation) based on situational appropriateness, which argues that creative methodologies must vary according to the author’s circumstances and the nature of the subject. This critical principle is vividly demonstrated in his correspondence debates, where he asserted that the essence of writing lies in manifesting sincere emotions and adopting original structures, even if they deviate from established customs. Furthermore, this paper sheds new light on the aspect of the "functional appropriation" of prose proposed by Hong. For him, prose was not merely a separate genre but a practical foundation for cultivating the fundamental Giryeok(氣力, vital energy) and Yeongnyang(力量, capability) necessary for poetic composition. He prescribed “striving for prose” rather than poetry as a remedy for the “weakness” (yak) of poems, based on the recognition that the literary spirit (mungi) secured through the thorough reading of prose models enables the attainment of the Chim-ul-no-geon(沈鬱老健, deep and vigorous) state in poetry. Building upon existing scholarship that viewed Hong’s literary theory in the context of post-natal learning, this study re-establishes his status as a critic in late Joseon literary history by identifying his critical originality in establishing prose as the essential foundation for poetic creation.

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