Jikji

Definition

Jikji is a significant Korean text known as the world's oldest extant book printed with movable metal type, completed in 1377 during the Goryeo Dynasty. This book represents a monumental achievement in printing technology and has had a lasting influence on the development of literature and culture in Korea, marking a transition toward more widespread dissemination of written works.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jikji was printed using movable metal type, a groundbreaking technology at the time that allowed for greater efficiency in producing written works compared to traditional woodblock printing.
2. The full title of Jikji is 'Jikji simche yojeol,' which translates to 'Anthology of Great Buddhist Priests' Zen Teachings,' showcasing its focus on Buddhism and Zen philosophy.
3. Only a few copies of Jikji are known to exist today, with one being housed at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France, emphasizing its historical significance.
4. The innovation seen in Jikji laid the groundwork for further developments in Korean literature and the spread of knowledge, influencing future generations of writers and scholars.
5. Jikji was recognized by UNESCO as a Memory of the World in 2001, highlighting its importance not only in Korean history but also in the global context of printing and literature.

Review Questions

• How did the printing technology used in Jikji differ from previous methods, and what impact did this have on Korean literature?
  • Jikji utilized movable metal type, which was a significant advancement over traditional woodblock printing. This new technology allowed for quicker production and easier correction of texts, leading to a wider distribution of literature. The increased accessibility to written works helped foster a richer literary culture in Korea, encouraging both the creation and consumption of diverse texts.
• Discuss the cultural significance of Jikji within the context of the Goryeo Dynasty's advancements in literature and technology.
  • Jikji embodies the cultural advancements achieved during the Goryeo Dynasty, showcasing how innovations in printing technology enhanced the dissemination of Buddhist teachings and other literary works. As one of the earliest examples of printed literature, Jikji reflects the period's intellectual vibrancy and religious devotion, indicating how these elements intertwined to shape Korean identity during this era.
• Evaluate how Jikji's recognition by UNESCO as a Memory of the World contributes to our understanding of its global impact on printing and literature.
  • The recognition of Jikji by UNESCO highlights its extraordinary contribution to the evolution of printing technology and literature on an international scale. By acknowledging Jikji as a pivotal work, it allows us to appreciate how Korean innovations influenced global practices in publishing. This designation encourages a reevaluation of historical narratives about printing technology, illustrating that significant advancements were not confined to Europe but occurred across different cultures, including Korea.

Related terms

movable type: A printing technology that uses individual pieces of metal type to compose text, allowing for the quick arrangement and rearrangement of characters for printing.

Goryeo Dynasty: A Korean dynasty that lasted from 918 to 1392, known for its cultural and technological advancements, including the development of printing techniques.

buddhism: A spiritual tradition that emphasizes personal spiritual development and the attainment of a deep insight into the true nature of life, which was central to many texts printed during the Goryeo period.