SOAS Research Online

Abstract

In spite of the fact that the novel, which is at the present time one of the dominant forms of prose fiction in Thailand, asserted itself as a new genre in Thai literature nearly half a century ago, no detailed study of its origin and development has been made. This thesis, therefore, is written as an attempt to provide such a study. Its scope has been limited to the early development of this new literary genre. This study was based chiefly on the material available in the library of the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, and in the National Library in Bangkok, and personal communications with many writers, journalists and men of letters in Thailand. The thesis contains nine chapters, one table and one appendix.;Chapter one presents a brief general history of Thai literature with emphasis on the poetic tradition. Chapter two deals with the history and nature of prose works before the modern period. Chapter three is concerned with book production before and after the introduction of printing technology. Chapter four examines the role of journalism in relation to the development of modern prose fiction. Chapters five and six deal with the literary climate in which the novel proper was to emerge, with special reference to the development of the short story, imported literature derived from Western and Chinese fiction - appearing in books and films, and the proto-novel. An historical background of the works is included. Chapter seven discusses the nature of the first published novels of "Si Burapha", "Dokmai Sot" and Prince A-katdamkoeng. Chapter eight provides a general description of the reading public and examines the relationship between readers and writers of modem prose fiction, with special reference to Prince Phichit-prichakon and Prince A-katdamkoeng. Chapter nine is a conclusion in which the correlation between the developing novel and society is discussed. The table contains historical events significantly relevant to the development of the novel in Thailand. The appendix contains biographical sketches of Prince Phichitprichakon. Prince Bidyalankarana, King Vajiravudh, Prince A-kat-deunkoeng, "Dokmai Sot" and "Si Burapha".