Literature and Cultural Acculturation: the Analysis of Roles and Values in The narrative poem "Muangsit - Mhae Wae" in Charat community, Kongra District, Pattalung Province

Abstract

This research aims to study a narrative poem, “Muangsit – Mhae Wae” to explore its reflection of local literary values and cultural identity of the Charat-Kongra community in Pattalung Province. The researcher uses the version of “Muangsit-Mhae Wae written by Mr. Sama-ae Wongsa-ad as source analysis. This version was published and distributed by     Samran Rat at Bangkok Publishing House as a narrative poem, similar to the Tale of Wat Koh. The researcher studies this literary work by analysing descriptions in the story and connecting the content with social and cultural characteristics of the Charat-Kongra community. From the result of the study, it is found that “Muangsit-Mhae Wae” is enriched with literary values, reflecting that although love is one of human natural instincts, the more important thing is their bravery to take responsibilities for the result from that feeling and the ensuing act. This regional literary work, thus, has a significant role in preaching and showing the integration of Islam and Buddhism in the Charat-Kongra society during old Pattalung City. The story that depicts fights between Muangsit and officers as well as grabbing of the heroine shows the harmoniously cultural combination of Buddhism, Islam and Hinduism which can be seen through rites and characters’ faith and behaviours concerning black magic, superstition, inspection of auspicious day and time, teachings about karma and Mhrahom, the guardian spirit of the village. In addition, the narrative poem of “Muangsit-Mhae Wae” has a role and values in terms of the cultural heritage which can reflect the community identity.