Traits of Choice: Unlocking the Secret Characteristics of the ‘Right’ Men and Women in Thai Textbooks of Physiognomy

Abstract

This article is aimed at studying ‘Naralaksana’ - the ancient Thai textbook of physiognomy - in order to understand such a body of knowledge about ‘sex’ that exists in Thai society. The study shows that the predictions described in the textbook were based on the judgement of whether a specific organ or behavior in men and women, related to sex or not, is a "favorable" or "unfavorable" trait. By looking at these traits within a person - their characteristics of sexual organs and the reproductive system, sexual needs, sexual behavior, sexual orientations, marriage life, and reproductive ability- can be revealed. The textbooks provide not only predictions that imply the characteristics of the ideal man’s and woman’s body, which influence their ability to have and raise children who will become valuable members of the society, but also the methods of control over sexual behaviors, and the teaching that highlights the variation in sexual orientations - especially among women. This kind of carnal knowledge explained in the textbooks helps men, the side that makes the choice, to find the right partner, while at the same time, educating a couple to fulfil each other appropriately - allowing their sexual well-being to be achieved and a healthy family unit to be maintained.