The Narrative Gaps of Lady Gwak, Baengdeok-eomi, and ‘Simcheong’ : Focusing on Sin Jae-hyo’s Simcheongga

This study examines the narrative devices of “gap” and the “mediation” that supplements it in Sin Jae-hyo’s version of Simcheongga by closely analyzing the actions of its key characters—Lady Gwak, Baengdeok-eomi, and Simcheong—to explore new possibilities for re-reading the text. The findings reveal that Sin Jae-hyo’s Simcheongga is not confined to a sacrificial filial narrative aimed solely at restoring Simbong’s sight. Rrather, it exhibits a unique “mediation narrative” structure in which Lady Gwak, Baengdeok-eomi, and Simcheong act as agents who simultaneously fill and create multiple layers of gaps. The absolute deficiency of Simbong, referred to as “anmang” (blindness), is not merely a flaw but significantly influences the narrative development as it is compensated for through the actions of Lady Gwak, Baengdeok-eomi, and Simcheong. In particular, as her very name—Simcheong—symbolizes “Simbong’s eyes,” she plays a decisive role in overcoming her father’s physical and emotional deficiencies. By shedding new light on these narrative features, this study confirms the narrative strategy pursued by the reviser, Sin Jae-hyo, and contributes to expanding the range of interpretative possibilities inherent in classical texts.