ScholarWorks@숙명여자대학교

초록

This paper analyzes the patterns and significance of the mythical reinterpretation in Bea (written by Lee Hee-yeong, published by Wisdom House, 2024), a young adult fantasy novel that utilizes the motif of the Dangun Myth. Bea reinterprets Ungnyeo (The Bear Woman) of the Dangun Myth as an active and autonomous female character, establishing a growth narrative for the protagonist, Bea, who corresponds to Ungnyeo. Bea, named the successor to the highest authority of the Bis tribe, ventures through the deadly forest ‘Cave’ and advances toward the legendary land ‘Saraa’. In this process, she grows from a character who yearns for external validation to a ‘Kun’—a figure possessing self-assurance and the qualities necessary to lead her tribe. In overcoming the trials of the Cave forest, Bea chooses wisdom over brute force and openness and acceptance over isolation. Ultimately, she is reborn as an ethical leader who respects life and seeks the expansion of the community through harmony and solidarity. By presenting a vision of women’s independent growth and communal harmony, this work serves as an example showing that our myths can function as a dynamic arena—not merely as stories of the past—for reflecting on the present era and contemplating new possibilities for life.

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