Sepha Khun Chang Khun Phan

Abstract

Sepha Khun Chang Khun Phan is based on a true story that happened in the Ayutthaya period. This literary work was subsequently developed from a series of folk tales to court literature in the reign of King Rama II of Ratanakosin Period. This artistic work was first published in the reign of King Rama V by Dr. Smith's printing house. In 1917, Somdej Khrom Phraya Damrong Rajanuphap edited this verse tale and selected 43 episodes to publish under the title of Sepha Khun Chang Khun Phaen, the Vijirayan Royal Library version, which is the master version until the present day. 

The Ministry of Education chose Episode 24 : The Birth of Phlai Ngam and Episode 35 : Khun Chang appealing to the King to be literary texts for prescribed junior high school and senior high school students. This article analyzes the literary values of these two episodes. 

The Birth of Phlai Ngam presents the confrontation of the emotions of love and hate. The characters are very distinguished. Cultural wisdom is interestingly presented. The verses written by Suntorn Phu, the superb poet are poetic and beautiful. 

Khun Chang appealing to the King, written by an anonymous poet is praised as one of the best episodes. It depicts the pre-climax of the story, the execution of Wanthong. The themes of this episode are the manifestation of the power of men and the destiny of Wanthong reflected in her sincere words. This episode, similar to other episodes, presents the wisdom in Thai culture and literary arts. Sepha Khun Chang Khun Phaen is a very artistic tale in verse which deserves the appraisal as the diamond of Thai literature.