Language and culture in His Majesty King Bhumipol Adulyadej' s The story of mahajanaka

Abstract

This research aimed to study the concepts that readers attain from the story of Mahajanaka, composed by His Majesty King Bhumiblo Adulyadej, and how they are communicated to readers. The methodology of analysis was discourse analysis, focusing on language and culture. From a deep reading of the work,it can be seen that its words and phrases were selected and arranged in an exalted and exquisite style to praise the magical story of the Lord Buddha's previous birth. At the same time, the story is narrated in straightforward way to allow the younger genneration entry into the work. Apart from this, certain content was adjusted to be of greater benefit to Thai society. As for non-verbal language, illustrations were used to help tell the story and male it more interesting. In terms of culture, the examination of the work founf four areas of impotr: religion reflecting as a way of pure perseverance, sharp wisdom and complete physical health; kingship and governance, with regard to which for over fifty years king bhumibol has been on the throne and has shown devotion to the kingly virtues; the economy and society, regarding which the author advises Thai people on how to live well during economic crisis and in society; and education, the work reflecting the value of education and institutes of learning for all.