Thainess Discourse in 'When Grandparents were young'

Abstract

This research article aimed to analyze the discourse of Thainess as depicted in the literature “When Grandparents were Young”, written by Thipwanee Sanitwong Na Ayutthaya, using the Discourse theory by Michel Foucault and the Concept of Literary Analysis summarized by Pichet Saengthong, as analytical tools. The study identified three main Thai discourses presented in the literature: 1) Patriarchy discourse, which reinforces the values of Thai society by prioritizing boys’ education for government service leadership roles; 2) Perfect Housewife discourse, which emphasizes traditional gender roles for girls. It underscores the importance of girls having the manners of Thai ladies, knowledge of household chores, family caretaking responsibilities, frugality, and obedience to elders. This discourse also suggests that girls do not need formal education as they are ultimately expected to be caretakers of family members.
3) Good Children discourse, promoting obedience, manners, good behavior, honesty, thriftiness, and kindness.

         These Thainess discourses, rooted in the societal framework of King Rama VI’s reign, have been transmitted through youth literature. The Patriarchy discourses have persisted over time.  While the Perfect Housewife discourse has evolved with women’s educational opportunities, it remains aligned with Thai cultural values. The Good Children discourse continues to be reinforced through basic educational institutions. Notably, in 1955, it was reflected in the song “The Ten Commandments of Good Children,” and in 2014, the government introduced a framework of 12 behaviors for being a good person.