The purpose of this paper is to investigate the concepts and roles of literature in 1910s and to reorganize them by examining literary theories prevailed in the period. Literary theorists in those days had a tendency to regard literature as an entirely autonomous system, not as a secondary one which was subject to the other ideas. They thought literature was one of such necessary elements of life as morality, religion and science. This view was on the basis of their criticism that former literature had not maintained independent position because it was bound down by the ethical idea aimed at encouraging the good and punishing the evil. Their opinions, therefore, suggest the rise in position of literature. From this view, they thought that literature must take the role of improving undeveloped Korean lives, and they argued they be obliged to deal with actual problems. Their literary interests naturally turned to national realities not blessed with tangible wealth, and finally literature carne to be regarded as effective means improving national personality. From this point of view, it can be said that literary theories in 1910s essentially bear on the characteristics of national literature.