Caste Division in Parts of Ways of Life from M.R. Kukrit Pramoj's Works

Abstract

This article explores caste divisions and ways of life through an analysis of 10 works, both fiction and non-fiction, by M.R. Kukrit Pramoj. The study highlights that caste divisions in ancient societies were reflected through various elements, including occupation, housing, utensils, clothing, and language. Occupations tied to caste systems were evident in pre-Reform Japan. Housing, as an indicator of social status, revealed patterns of segregated living among groups such as Jews and Westerners in medieval Europe, British colonists and Kenyans during the British colonial period, and people in Chinese, Thai, and Khmer societies. Utensils also served as markers of social and economic status, particularly in ancient Thai and Khmer communities. Clothing further underscored caste distinctions, as seen in the attire of boys belonging to the Brahmin, Kshatriya, and Vaishya castes, each with unique styles. Similarly, high-ranking women in the Chinese Taisheng dynasty wore attire that distinguished them from ordinary women. Other examples include the separation of Jews and Westerners in medieval Europe, the Jori group in Japan, and various social groups across different cultures worldwide.