7.4 The influence of Neo-Confucian philosophy on literature and arts
4 min read•august 16, 2024
Neo-Confucianism deeply influenced Joseon art and literature. It emphasized , harmony with nature, and inner truth in artistic expression. These ideals shaped everything from to poetry, reflecting values like simplicity and balance.
The impact was far-reaching. Scholars became both creators and critics, developing new genres like poetry and . They debated art's role in society and established aesthetic standards based on Neo-Confucian principles, leaving a lasting mark on Korean culture.
Neo-Confucian Aesthetics in Joseon Art
Fundamental Principles and Manifestations
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- Neo-Confucian aesthetics emphasized moral cultivation, harmony with nature, and pursuit of inner truth in artistic expression
- Li (principle) and qi (material force) concepts influenced portrayal of natural landscapes and human subjects
- Simplicity, restraint, and balance reflected ideals of self-discipline and moral rectitude
- "Painting the idea" (사의화, ) principle emerged emphasizing artist's inner vision and moral character over technical skill
- Literary works incorporated didactic elements and moral lessons aligning with ethical cultivation and social harmony emphasis
- Calligraphy elevated as supreme art form embodying unity of moral cultivation, literary accomplishment, and aesthetic expression
- Examples: Scholar's study paintings featuring calligraphy, landscape paintings with poetic inscriptions
Aesthetic Qualities and Symbolism
- Empty space (여백, ) in paintings reflected concepts of potential and importance of contemplation
- Subdued colors, refined brushwork, and balanced composition mirrored values of moderation and harmony
- "" (사군자, sagunja) emerged as popular subjects symbolizing Confucian virtues
- Plum blossom: perseverance
- Orchid: refinement
- Chrysanthemum: integrity
- Bamboo: flexibility and strength
- Symbolic representations of Confucian classics and moral teachings became common in decorative arts and folk paintings
- Examples: Paintings depicting scenes from the Analects, celadon vases with Confucian motifs
Development of Neo-Confucian Literary Genres
Sijo and Gasa Poetry Forms
- Sijo evolved as three-line Korean poetic form expressing Neo-Confucian philosophical concepts and moral teachings
- Tripartite structure of sijo mirrored Neo-Confucian logical reasoning and balanced worldview
- Introduction, development, conclusion format
- developed as longer narrative verse form exploring complex Neo-Confucian themes and moral dilemmas
- Both forms employed natural imagery as metaphors for human virtues and moral principles
- Examples: Sijo comparing human constancy to pine trees, gasa narrating moral dilemmas through seasonal changes
- Yangban class became primary creators and consumers of these literary forms shaping content and style
- Literary Chinese remained primary language for scholarly writing while vernacular Korean gained prominence in poetry
Literary Criticism and Theory
- Rich tradition of literary criticism and theory developed based on Neo-Confucian principles of aesthetics and morality
- Scholars established standards of excellence for literature grounded in philosophical principles
- Sophisticated systems of evaluation emerged assessing adherence to Neo-Confucian aesthetic and moral principles
- Practice of writing colophons and commentaries on literary works became important form of scholarly engagement
- Debates on proper role of literature in society and its relationship to moral cultivation flourished among intellectuals
- Examples: Discussions on balance between didactic purpose and artistic merit in poetry, critiques of overly ornate or frivolous writing styles
Neo-Confucian Ideology and Joseon Art
Dominant Genres and Themes
- Landscape painting (산수화, sansuhwa) became dominant genre reflecting ideals of harmony between humans and nature
- Examples: Monumental landscape scrolls, intimate album leaf paintings of scenic spots
- Portrait painting (초상화, chosanghwa) emphasized inner character and moral qualities over physical likeness
- Examples: Official portraits of scholar-officials, informal portraits of literary figures
- "Literati painting" (문인화, muninhwa) developed as form of self-cultivation and expression of Neo-Confucian ideals
- Examples: Scholar-painters creating landscapes, bird-and-flower paintings as personal expressions
Stylistic Preferences and Techniques
- Use of empty space (여백, yeobaek) reflected concepts of potential and importance of contemplation
- Subdued colors, refined brushwork, and balanced composition mirrored values of moderation and harmony
- Symbolic representations of Confucian classics and moral teachings became common in decorative arts
- Examples: Celadon vases with Confucian motifs, folding screens depicting scenes from classical texts
- Stylistic evolution from detailed, colorful court painting styles to more restrained literati aesthetics
- Examples: Shift from vibrant mineral pigments to subtle ink washes in landscape painting
Neo-Confucian Scholars and Joseon Arts
Role of Scholar-Officials in Artistic Production
- Neo-Confucian scholars served as both creators and critics of art and literature
- "" (사대부, ) ideal promoted integration of artistic pursuits with political and moral responsibilities
- Neo-Confucian academies (서원, seowon) became centers for study and promotion of literature and arts alongside classical learning
- Examples: Dosan Seowon founded by , Byeongsan Seowon known for its literary gatherings
- Scholars organized poetry gatherings and painting sessions fostering vibrant cultural environment among educated elite
- Examples: Poetry competitions at royal banquets, informal painting gatherings in scholar's gardens
Scholarly Engagement and Criticism
- Sophisticated systems of literary and art criticism developed evaluating works based on Neo-Confucian principles
- Practice of writing colophons and commentaries on paintings and literary works flourished
- Examples: Scholars adding poetic inscriptions to paintings, compiling anthologies with critical commentaries
- Debates on proper role of art in society and its relationship to moral cultivation were common
- Examples: Discussions on whether painting should primarily serve didactic purposes or express personal emotions
- Scholars established standards of excellence based on philosophical principles shaping artistic production and reception
- Examples: Emphasis on moral content in literature, preference for restrained elegance in painting styles
Key Terms to Review (21)
Benevolence: Benevolence refers to the quality of being well-meaning, kind, and charitable towards others. It is often associated with a desire to promote the happiness and welfare of others, reflecting a deep sense of compassion and altruism. In various cultural contexts, including historical narratives and philosophical teachings, benevolence serves as a guiding principle for ethical conduct and interpersonal relationships.
Buddhism's influence on Confucian thought: Buddhism's influence on Confucian thought refers to the ways in which Buddhist ideas and practices shaped and transformed Confucian philosophy, particularly during the Neo-Confucian revival. This interaction led to a blending of ethical, metaphysical, and cosmological concepts, enriching Confucian ideas about morality, self-cultivation, and the nature of existence. The exchange between these two traditions fostered a deeper exploration of the self, the universe, and moral relationships, ultimately impacting literature and the arts.
Choson Confucian Literature: Choson Confucian literature refers to the body of literary works produced during the Choson Dynasty (1392-1897) in Korea, which were heavily influenced by Neo-Confucian ideals. This literature emphasized moral values, social harmony, and the importance of education, reflecting the philosophical and ethical teachings of Confucianism that shaped Korean society at the time. Through various forms, including poetry, essays, and historical writings, Choson Confucian literature aimed to cultivate virtuous behavior and reinforce the hierarchical social order endorsed by Confucian doctrine.
Four Gentlemen: The Four Gentlemen refers to four specific plants in East Asian culture—plum blossom, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum—that symbolize noble qualities in Neo-Confucian philosophy. These plants represent moral integrity, resilience, humility, and perseverance, serving as a metaphor for the ideals of the gentleman (or 'junzi') in Confucian thought. They are celebrated in literature and arts as embodying the virtues that Neo-Confucianism emphasized, linking nature's beauty with moral character.
Gasa: Gasa is a longer form of Korean poetry that emerged during the Joseon Dynasty, characterized by its narrative and lyrical qualities. It often explores themes of love, nature, and social commentary, reflecting the cultural and historical context of the time.
Joseon Dynasty: The Joseon Dynasty was a Korean dynastic kingdom that lasted from 1392 to 1910, marking a significant period in Korean history characterized by political stability, cultural advancement, and the development of Neo-Confucianism as a guiding philosophy. This era played a pivotal role in shaping Korea’s literature, culture, and social structure, influencing various aspects of life that are still relevant today.
Landscape painting: Landscape painting is an artistic genre that focuses on the depiction of natural scenery, including mountains, valleys, trees, rivers, and forests. It became prominent in various cultures as artists sought to capture the beauty of nature and reflect philosophical ideas about humanity's relationship with the environment. In the context of Neo-Confucian philosophy, landscape painting served not only as a representation of nature but also as a medium for expressing moral and ethical ideals.
Literati painting: Literati painting refers to a style of Chinese painting that was embraced by scholar-officials and educated elites during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This form of art emphasized personal expression and intellectual depth over mere technical skill, often reflecting the influence of Neo-Confucian philosophy that valued morality, nature, and self-cultivation.
Moral cultivation: Moral cultivation refers to the process of developing and refining one's ethical and moral character through education, self-discipline, and introspection. In the context of Neo-Confucian philosophy, it emphasizes the importance of personal virtue and moral integrity as foundational elements in creating a harmonious society. This concept extends beyond individual development, suggesting that a well-cultivated individual contributes positively to family and societal relations.
Sadaebu: Sadaebu refers to the educated elite or the scholar-official class in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty, who were primarily influenced by Confucian values. This group played a critical role in the administration and cultural development of Korea, as they were responsible for government service, education, and the promotion of Neo-Confucian philosophy. Their ideals shaped literature and arts, leading to a flourishing of intellectual pursuits and the propagation of Confucian teachings throughout society.
Sauihwa: Sauihwa refers to a genre of Korean literature that emphasizes the expression of personal feelings and emotions, often linked to Neo-Confucian ideals. It emerged during the late Choson period and reflects the influences of individualism and introspection, promoting the importance of self-cultivation and moral integrity. This genre is characterized by its focus on inner experiences, nature, and the human condition, making it a unique expression of the era's cultural shifts.
Scholar-official: A scholar-official was a member of the educated elite in premodern Korea, who passed rigorous civil service examinations and served in various governmental roles. These individuals were highly regarded for their knowledge of Confucian texts and principles, influencing both governance and cultural production, especially during the Joseon Dynasty.
Shamanism in literature: Shamanism in literature refers to the representation and incorporation of shamanic practices, beliefs, and experiences within literary works. This often includes themes of healing, the spiritual world, and the journey of the shaman as a mediator between the human and spirit realms. Shamanism provides a unique lens through which characters interact with the supernatural, influencing narrative structures and cultural expression.
Sijo: Sijo is a traditional Korean poetic form characterized by its three-line structure and a specific syllable pattern of 14-16-14. This poetic style emerged in the Goryeo period and flourished during the Joseon dynasty, becoming a vital part of Korean literature. Sijo encapsulates deep philosophical themes, emotional expression, and often reflects the socio-cultural dynamics of its time.
The relationship between man and nature: The relationship between man and nature refers to the interconnectedness and interdependence between humans and the natural world. This dynamic interaction is deeply explored in literature and arts, particularly under the influence of Neo-Confucian philosophy, which emphasizes harmony, balance, and the moral responsibility of humans to respect and coexist with nature.
The rise of Confucian state ideology: The rise of Confucian state ideology refers to the establishment of Confucianism as the dominant philosophical and political framework in Korea, particularly during the Joseon Dynasty. This ideology emphasized moral governance, social harmony, and the importance of hierarchy and education in maintaining an orderly society. It shaped not only the political landscape but also influenced cultural practices, arts, and literature.
Wang Yangming's writings: Wang Yangming's writings refer to the philosophical texts produced by the influential Ming dynasty thinker who emphasized the importance of intuitive knowledge and moral self-cultivation. His ideas significantly shaped Neo-Confucian philosophy, arguing that knowledge and action are inseparable and that individuals have an inherent understanding of right and wrong. This perspective greatly influenced literature and arts, leading to a focus on personal experience and moral integrity as central themes.
Yangban literature: Yangban literature refers to the body of works produced by the yangban, the ruling class and elite scholar-officials in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty. This literature is characterized by its deep ties to Neo-Confucian philosophy, which heavily influenced the themes, styles, and moral teachings present in the writings of the yangban class. It often reflects their social status, ethical dilemmas, and the promotion of Confucian values through poetry, essays, and prose.
Yeobaek: Yeobaek refers to the concept of emotional and moral support found in traditional Korean literature, often expressed through the relationships between characters, particularly in the context of friendship and loyalty. This term emphasizes the deep bond among individuals that transcends mere social obligation, reflecting an ideal of mutual care and respect that aligns with Neo-Confucian values of harmony and ethical conduct.
Yi Hwang: Yi Hwang, also known as Toegye, was a prominent Korean Confucian scholar during the Joseon Dynasty, whose ideas significantly influenced the development of Neo-Confucianism in Korea. His philosophical teachings emphasized moral cultivation, self-discipline, and the importance of understanding human nature, making him a key figure in shaping Joseon society and its intellectual landscape.
Yi i: Yi I, also known as Yulgok, was a prominent Korean scholar and philosopher of the Joseon Dynasty, best known for his contributions to Neo-Confucianism. He played a significant role in developing and interpreting Confucian thought in Korea, especially in relation to ethics, politics, and the role of individuals in society. His ideas helped shape the moral and intellectual landscape of Korea during his time and continue to influence Korean thought today.