One of Confucianism ’ s five governing human relationships is the theme of this story . Koreans followed a principle that guided the relationship between elder and younger brother . The older brother was superior to the younger , and was supposed to be a guide to moral and social advancement and help when the younger had difficulty . So that he could carry out his obligation , he inherited everything when their father died , and , in return for his support , the younger brother owed him submission in everything . This story also promotes the key Confucian ideal of moral suasion . This ideal , more than “ reward good and punish evil ,” tells us to turn evil into good through example .
The Money Bag Rich Miser Ong does not know it , but when he has the monk Hakdaesa thrown out of his house he is asking for trouble . And sure enough , trouble arrives for Ong the very next day in the form of a walking , talking and spitting image of himself , conjured by Hakdaesa to teach Ong a lesson . Phony Ong persuades everyone that he is the real Ong , and the real real Ong gets thrown out of his own house . Finally , after several months of wandering and begging , he repents . Hakdaesa decides he has learned a lesson and tells Ong to go on back home . What is he going to find , though , when he gets there ?
Both Buddhist and Confucian themes are presented here . And there is a good bit of shamanism here too . We see Buddhist lessons in developing proper perspective , distinguishing real value from ephemeral value , not forming attachment to those things you cannot take with you , and refocusing on family and fellow man . And it teaches respect for Buddha and Buddhism . The Confucian lesson in the story is in filial piety , which was a fundamental element in Korean society . And we see syncretism , how different systems of belief work together ; in this case , shamanism comes to the aid of Buddhism .
Chun Hyang Song ( Chunhyang ) When Mong Yong , the son of an aristocrat , falls into true love with Chun Hyang , the daughter of a kisaeng ( courtesan ), there is no way that trouble is not going to happen . Chun Hyang ' s mother allows the two lovers to marry . Too soon , though , Mong Yong has to leave for Seoul to take the higher civil service exam . He vows his undying love and loyalty . When the unprincipled local
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