Female Utopia in Classic Novels of the Joseon Dynasty: Imagination about Female Places

Abstract

This paper explores the imagination of female places in the classic novels of the Joseon Dynasty, focusing on Parkssijeon, Sukyeongnangjajeon, and Chwimisamseonrok. The three works illuminate female places-Pihwadang, Okyeondong, and the palace of Chwimi-in opposition to the patriarchal order and norms. These three places provide an escape from the fear of war and the vertical order of patriarchy. In these places, women have ownership rights and can act autonomously. By focusing on this fact, the present study aims to examine how women's life is depicted in the three works, and the implications of the women's spaces in them. Through this, it aims to take a closer look at the lives of women in the Joseon Dynasty, and the female places that they may have been dreaming of.