Identity Of the Paka k'eyau Tambon Banpong, Amphoe Wiangpapao, Changwat Chiang Rai

Abstract

          This research aims to study identity of the Paka k'eyau ethnic group in Banpong subdistrict, Wiangpapao district, Chiang Rai province. This qualitative research was conducted by governing folklore methodology and related notions so as to be basis for analyze the study, namely notion of representation and identity in order to analyze to identify the Paka k'eyau ethnic group. The result of the study was presented through descriptive analytics. 

          The study results revealed that identity of the Paka k'eyau ethnic group exists in the creation of factors in their living that are meal and food ingredients, costume, settlement, ceremony and traditional medical treatment. The factors reflect that the ethnic group play their role as a nature conservationist and has their loyal, sincere, calm and ordinary characters. Obviously, they have their own belief and respect for the supernatural. These identities were created based on the belief of the ethic group that has been transferred through periods of time since their ancestors until current generation. Although cultural assimilation has caused an insignificant change in their culture, the original identity of the Paka k'eyau ethnic group has been remained to and presented characteristics of the Paka k'eyau ethnic group until now.