Heroism from Common People in Thai PBS Television Drama

Abstract

This qualitative research is content study that aimed to study 1) the creation of heroism from common people in Thai PBS television drama and 2) an analysis of the heroism characterization of common people in Thai PBS television drama.

The results showed that the creation of heroism from common people in Thai PBS television drama is mostly presented in drama and historical genres. The initiation of heroism from common people were 1) being a witness to others’ suffering 2) facing difficulty or suffering. The objectives of fighting were categorized into two categories: 1) fighting for morality that is ideal of humanity and 2) fighting for challenging and opposing unjust societal values or rules. As the story ending, the results pointed that there were three types of ending, 1) Pursuing a new dream or adventure. 2) Returning to their home towns, and 3) being injured or dying.

The key features of heroism from common people in Thai PBS television drama were bravery and sacrifice themselves for society. They never surrender their missions to obstacles. And the most importantly, they always overcome their evil selves. As in fighting style, it was found as an unarmed fight but they fight with aptitude, skill and knowledge about work and commitment in their mission.  In addition, the common heroism in Thai PBS dramas was often across all genders and ages, and they were distributed in the regions of Thailand.