Knowledge Crystallization in Nithan Borankhadi

Abstract

Background and objective (s): This study was inspired by the content of Nithan Borankhadi that was composed by H.R.H. Prince Damrong Rajanubhab, who told many stories by adding knowledge to the topics of history, archaeology and the culture of Thailand. The significance of this work is that it was the author's last work. To further an understanding, the synthesized and collected his own earlier works, refining, expanding and polishing the texts to guarantee accuracy and comprehensiveness. It has been demonstrated that the writings reflected the author's knowledge and crystallization of ideas, which inspired the researcher to examine the essence and knowledge crystallization.

Methodology: A textual analysis procedure was applied using the concept of studying the essence of the content from the text and comparing the content with other texts of the author using the concept of intertextuality in order to present the crystallization of knowledge reflected through the royal writings.

Main result: This study showed that Nithan Borankhadi was made up of facts and narratives. The main contents include Thai history, archaeology, culture and society, which were taken from the original works and improved until they crystallized into knowledge.Furthermore, Nithan Borankhadi was not considered fiction, according to the definition of a “tale”, but is a name given to the storytelling method because it provided insight into Thai studies. The author's expertise was crystallized through Nithan Borankhadi in the following techniques: 1) data analysis and narrative correction; 2) causal significance explanation; 3) data addition, clarity and elaboration; and 4) new storytelling.

Relevance to Thai Studies: Nithan Borankhadi is related to Thai history, archaeology, culture and society. Moreover, the author provided a logical interpretation in addition to the facts. As a result, there is a wealth of information for Thai studies, including Thai history, archaeology, culture and society.

Conclusion: Nithan Borankhadi was the author's final composition prior to his passing. This significant piece of writing encapsulated the author's expertise, which was gathered from a variety of stories for this book. As a result, the study revealed the text’s essential features, significance nature of the Nithan Borankhadi as evidence that Thai studies can be referenced and searched.