Vernacular Language

Definition

Vernacular language refers to the native language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a specific region, as opposed to a formal or literary language. In the context of Korean literature, vernacular language plays a significant role in the creation and appreciation of literary works, especially during periods when literature was being produced for and by the common people rather than just the elite.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the Silla period, Hyangga emerged as a form of poetry that utilized vernacular language, making it accessible to a broader audience beyond the elite class.
2. The use of vernacular language in Hyangga allowed poets to express local culture, spirituality, and personal feelings in a way that resonated with everyday experiences.
3. Vernacular language in literature served as a vehicle for preserving Korean cultural identity during times when foreign influences were prominent.
4. Hyangga poems were often set to music, highlighting how vernacular language was integral not only to poetry but also to the musical traditions of the time.
5. The transition from classical Chinese influenced literature to vernacular forms marked a significant evolution in Korean literary history, reflecting changing societal values.

Review Questions

• How did the use of vernacular language in Hyangga poetry influence its accessibility to the general population during the Silla period?
  • The use of vernacular language in Hyangga poetry significantly enhanced its accessibility to the general population by allowing ordinary people to understand and relate to the content. Unlike classical Chinese texts, which were mainly understood by the elite, Hyangga utilized everyday language that resonated with common experiences and emotions. This democratization of poetry fostered a deeper cultural connection among the people and helped preserve their unique identity.
• Discuss the role of vernacular language in shaping Korean cultural identity during the Silla period, particularly through Hyangga poetry.
  • Vernacular language played a crucial role in shaping Korean cultural identity during the Silla period by enabling poets to articulate local customs, beliefs, and emotions through Hyangga poetry. This form of expression not only reflected the lived experiences of ordinary Koreans but also distinguished their cultural heritage from foreign influences. The ability to convey stories and sentiments in a familiar dialect helped solidify a sense of community and national pride among Koreans.
• Evaluate how the transition from classical Chinese literature to vernacular language impacted the development of Korean literature and its audience.
  • The transition from classical Chinese literature to vernacular language represented a transformative shift in Korean literature that expanded its reach and relevance. By embracing vernacular forms like Hyangga, literature became more relatable and engaging for everyday people, breaking down barriers between authors and audiences. This evolution not only nurtured a sense of cultural identity but also laid the groundwork for future literary movements that continued to prioritize accessibility and expression rooted in native experiences.

Related terms

Hyangga: Hyangga are native Korean poems from the Silla period that often use vernacular language, expressing emotions and themes relatable to everyday life.

Classical Korean: Classical Korean refers to the formal written language used in literature, official documents, and scholarship, contrasting with the vernacular spoken by the general populace.

Silla Period: The Silla period (57 BC – 935 AD) is one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, during which significant cultural and literary developments occurred, including the rise of Hyangga poetry.