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History of Hyangyak(鄕約 Village Code) in Miryang Dohobu(Town castle) District, Gyeongsang Province during the Period of Joseon Dynasty

  • 인문논총
  • 2015, 37(), pp.5-30
  • Publisher : Institute for Human studies, Kyungnam University
  • Research Area : Humanities > Other Humanities
  • Published : June 30, 2015

Yi Gwang woo 1

1영남대학교

Accredited

ABSTRACT

Neo Confucianism during the Joseon Dynasty period served as the rationale or cause behind various social organizations and autonomous norms. In particular, Hyang'yak(Village Compact) that was practiced on the basis of Ilhyang under the leadership of provincial noble families and local government officials most clearly reveal the cause for autonomy. Ilhyang based Hyang'yak that was practiced in Miryang-Dohobu, Gyeongsangdo during the Joseon Dynasty period can be understood within this frame and can be largely classified into three stages. The first stage is the late 15th century where Jong-jik Kim, the head of Sarim Party, was engaging in various activities. He was directly and indirectly involved in village enlightenment projects such as restoration of Yuhangso and implementation of Hyangsarye and Hyangeumjurye(Confucian ceremonies and banquets) in Milyang. The second stage is around 17th century and an iconic Hyang'yak called Muja Hyang'yak was established in 1648. It is noticeable that this Hyang'yak contains stipulations regarding the extended coverage of governance that includes Hyangsadang (shrine) and Myeonri ogranizations. The third stage is 18th and 19th century when autonomic aspects of Hyang'yak were weakened. In response, provincial noble families of Milyang in the 18th century established Hyang'yak that granted Hyang'yak organizations the authority over human resources over Confucian school personnel and public officials in a bid to restore village governance order oriented toward noble families. Enactment of Hyang'yak in 19th century was led by local government officials who seemed to use it as a means of governance rather than of autonomy

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