Ancient Market as a Stage for Cultural Narratives: A Case Study of “Khrai Khrâi Khá Khá” Ancient Market in Si Satchanalai District, Sukhothai Province

Abstract

This research study aimed to investigate the methods to convey cultural narratives in the presentation of “Khrai Khrâi Khá Khá” Ancient Market Community in Si Satchanalai District, Sukhothai Province, based on Erving Goffman’s Dramaturgical Model. The study employed both documentary study and field study to collect the data according to the folklore research methodology during the period dated from 1 October 2018 to 30 June 2019.  The findings reveal that the community makes use of the ancient market as a stage to display cultural narratives with 3 distinctive aspects of the community image: 1) A community with ancient history, 2) A community with diverse cultural heritage, and 3) A community with environmental conscience.  Within the context of contemporary tourism, this ancient market serves not only as a venue for community commerce but also as a stage for cultural narratives that highlight the community identity.  The continual operation of “Khrai Khrâi Khá Khá” Ancient Market, therefore, is important in terms of both the promotion of community economy and the projection of cultural tourism image of a community in the area of a World Heritage site.