Modern Literature in Both Korea and China

In the following works, to what extent is an individual struggling with himself/herself on a personal level, and to what degree is that individual grappling with society at large? Illustrate your reasoning with specific quotations from the texts. Discuss The Heartless (1917) by Yi Kwangsu; Wings (1936) by Yi Sing; Sinking (1921) by Yu Dafu; and Creation (1928) by Mao Dun In the Heartless, Hyongsik, the main character in the story concerns himself more so than with anything …

…in these respective stories lack the unwavering nationalistic elements necessary to enlighten its people. Instead, with contradictions and confusion abound, there is fear that adopting any ideas that go to any one extreme will prevent people from reaching the ideological equilibrium. In this case, Junshi's personal struggles are overshadowed by the disorder rampant in his society. As a result, this turmoil and confusion that Junshi attempts to triumph over ultimately exacerbates his own conjugal problems.