Real Modern

Real Modern by Christopher P. Hanscom, published by Harvard University in 2013, offers a compelling exploration of Korean literature during a turbulent period of history. In this insightful book, which spans 248 pages, Hanscom delves into the works of three notable Korean authors from the 1930s—Pak T’aewon, Kim Yujong, and Yi T’aejun. Through a critical lens, he examines how these writers navigated and challenged the dominant literary representations of their time, particularly under the backdrop of Japanese colonial rule.

By re-contextualizing modernist fiction within an imperial framework, Real Modern uncovers the intricate connections between aesthetics and political discourse. This thought-provoking analysis not only enriches our understanding of Korean literature but also invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of art and representation during periods of oppression.