Korea Journal of Buddhist Studies ISSN:1598-0642(Print) 불교학연구

This study focuses on the idealized images of mother, wife and daughter which was represented in 『Samgugyusa(三國遺事) hyosun(孝善). The result shows that it beared a positive standpoint toward woman sush as woman could attain Buddhahood as an equal being to man. Furthermore, it created ideal woman images as an active and positive way. That is to say, they put wisdom, cleverness and logical affirmation images into female characters like mother, wife and daughter respectively. Wise mother could be reached Joungto(淨土) by his son's dedication to Buddhism, clever wife also could play an active role as a helper who might give a clever advice or a solution over the filial duty. Finally, a young and poor daughter was expected to sacrifice herself in order to fulfill her filial piety.(孝)These positive images of woman could be related with ancient Korea's myth and old tales which also have produced extremely active images of women in the history. Along with this historical narrative convention, expansion of Buddhism should cooperate with positive woman images in order to enlarge Buddhism power. However, even though they interpretate woman as a bright and clever being, the way of practice this positive woman images needs man's support. It clearly shows that Buddhism have aimed at equality between male and female figure, however, it also had draw a limit for woman. That is to say, woman could obtain idealized images which was expected in terms of Buddhism through supporting man. Nonetheless, discovery of positive woman images could not be ignored. Finally, plays an active role in consolidation of main theme of『Samgugyusa(三國遺事) which was shini(神異). This important theme is presented through the poor who was belong to the lowest class in ancient Shila(新羅), could be protected and saved by Buddhism.