『라쎌라스』의 네카야와 페쿠아를 통해 본 사무엘 존슨과 여성

Samuel Johnson and Women in Rasselas

Samuel Johnson's Rasselas, while often categorized as a philosophical fable rather than a conventional novel, offers a nuanced depiction of women that defies the typical gender norms of the 18th century. Among its central characters are Nekayah, the protagonist Rasselas's sister, and Pekuah, Nekayah's companion, both of whom are portrayed as independent, intellectual, and actively engaged in the pursuit of knowledge and experience. This article examines Johnson's literary treatment of women in Rasselas and argues that his portrayal of Nekayah and Pekuah reflects a progressive stance on gender, challenging prevailing patriarchal biases. By presenting these women as intellectually equal to their male counterparts and as participants in philosophical inquiry, Johnson reveals a complex and forward-thinking perspective on women's roles in society. This study situates Rasselas within the broader context of Johnson’s interactions with contemporary women writers and intellectuals, highlighting his advocacy for women's education and literary contributions. Furthermore, it explores how Johnson’s personal experiences, including the grief surrounding his mother’s death during the work’s composition, inform the text’s meditations on human resilience, hope, and the search for meaning. Through this analysis, the article sheds light on Johnson's intricate and often underappreciated engagement with gender issues in his literary works.