Early Korean Literature: Selections and Introductions

Preeminent scholar and translator David R. McCann presents an anthology of his own translations of classic works encompassing the major genres and authors of the Korean literary tradition — stories, legends, poems, historical vignettes, and other works — with introductory essays to aid in their understanding.

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A brief history of Korean literature up to the 19th century is followed by a selective anthology of Korean literature including the (1145), a selection of books from the (1285), the Koryo Songs, and texts illustrating the political and cultural transition from Koryo to Choson, all accompanied by the editor's commentary and historical background. The second section addresses interpretive or comparative issues relating to the volume's literary selections. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

David R. McCann is Korea Foundation Professor of Korean Literature in the Department of East Asian Languages and Civilizations at Harvard University. His publications include Selected Poems of Sô Chôngju and Form and Freedom in Korean Poetry.