Comparing of Li Zhi and Heo Gyun
Date Issued
2012
Date
2012
Author(s)
Hyun, Byung-Hun
Abstract
Li Zhi(1527~1602) and Heo Gyun(1569~1618) are figures who each existed in the same decade in Ming Dynasty and Chosun Dynasty. The one intriguing fact that both philosophers had in common was their peculiar thoughts and actions that transcended their times. Therefore, it was not thought as uncommon for these two to be exiled or even executed for their misbehaviors within their countries. To prove this point, Li Zhi suicided and Heo Gyun was executed. These two people were first brought up together in Taiwan’s Academia Sinica by a Korean scholar, Lee Ga-Won, in one of his books. Lee Ga-Won has stated that Heo Gyun could be viewed as Li Zhi, but Korean. However, this book did not provide any factual evidence, but relied only on their similar characteristics. In such regards, many people could not properly state whether the two could be viewed as one. Although both figures never never came into contact with another, if we were to compare the lives, philosophies, and literatures of Li Zhi and Heo Gyun, one can find many commonalities between the two.
Having lived in the same period but in different countries, Li Zhi and Heo Gyun had shared similar beliefs that were viewed as confrontations to their teachings. It is a wonder how two seemingly similar people were born under the time period, yet live in different countries to have had ideas that transcended their traditional values. Although there are many assumptions, their unwavering pride can be viewed as a major factor. Even with many accusations, the two never gave up their philosophy, eventually leading to their deaths. Another key factor is that the two were influenced by Taoism. In Ming Dynasty, the people were free to choose their religion, but in Chosun Dynasty that was not the case. From the old times, Neo-Confucianism was the dominant religion in Chosun Dynasty and therefore, Taoism was looked down upon. But the fact that Heo Gyun was able to pretentiously announce his religion as other than Confucianism may show his dedication towards Taoism. The final similarity that will be discussed in this paper is how both figures criticized their societies. They described how the country was being governed poorly and people who proclaimed themselves to be moralists were actually seeking one’s interest only. However, moralists being leaders of their countries, the two faced imminent punishment.
The 16,17th century was a time when countries faced changes. Li Zhi and Heo Gyun were one of the few people who may have stood in the middle of all those changes. However, it is truly unfortunate for both philosophers to be branded as criminals and sinners. Therefore, this paper serves the purpose to identify the cause to how both figures came to be called as such.
Subjects
Li Zhi
Heo Gyun
Tongxinshuo
Munsul
viewpoint of woman
Friendship
Type
thesis
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