“Stigmatized Female Characters” in Thai Literature and their Reinterpretation in Contemporary Songs

Abstract

This research article aims to study the use of “stigmatized female characters” derived from Thai literature in contemporary songs (which are broadcast via www.YouTube.com) to analyze the social contexts leading to the recreation of these characters in the songs. The survey focuses on the period of 10 years between 2011 – 2021 and looks at the representation of stigmatized female characters from Thai literature, who are normally controversial figures or are perceived negatively, in songs with more than 1 million views. As a result, there are six songs used as the data in this work: Aya Songchai, Songchai, Chai Phisuea Samut (Rak Koen Cha Hakchai), Namta Phisuea Samut, Meri, and Meri (Siao Nathi). The results show that there are four stigmatized female characters who are reinterpreted in these songs namely Wanthong, Kaki, Phisuea Samut, and Meri. The characters are recreated in three dimensions: firstly, through patriarchal norms; secondly, by denying beauty standards, and lastly a negotiation with ‘the Other’ related to ethnicity. The reinterpretation of the stigmatized characters in these ways reflects prevailing social contexts and movements such as women’s rights and human rights, which challenge existing social norms. Ultimately, apart from entertainment purposes, these songs illustrate not only the changes of Thai society in the last decade, but also serve as a site of struggle among different values in Thai society.