Dreams in “Khun Chang Khun Paen” and Their Cultural Significance

Abstract

"Khun Chang Khun Paen" is a treasure of Thai classical literature. It is known as the "Best of Flat Rhythm Glenn Poetry" in Thailand. It is a true portrayal of Thai society from the middle of the Ayutthaya Dynasty to the early Bangkok Dynasty. It is also the "encyclopedia" of society at that time. The love and hate of the characters and the comments on the events basically reflect the morality and values of the masses from the middle period of Ayutthaya Dynasty to the early period of Bangkok Dynasty. There are as many as 14 descriptions of dreams in "Khun Chang Khun Paen". The protagonists in the story dream of different types of dreams at different times and in different scenes, and these dreams finally come true in reality. Although these dreams are the predictions of reality by the characters in the novel, they are actually the products of Thais' long-term influence by religious thoughts. The religious belief concept presented in the dreams of "Khun Chang Khun Paen" shows the religious consciousness and ideology of Thais from multiple angles and levels.