Phya Kong Phya Phan: The Role and Transmission of Local Culture

Abstract

This academic article examines the role and transmission of Phya Kong Phya Phan folktale as a tool for cultural communication. The study reveals the folktale's significance in explaining the names of villages and towns linked to the narrative, reflecting community values, and featuring in local rituals and festivals. Initially transmitted through oral storytelling Phya Kong Phya Phan, like other traditional folktales, initially relied on oral storytelling. As the tale gained popularity, it was later recorded in written form and has since been creatively adapted into modern formats. Furthermore, the tale is also integrated into the Thai language learning standards of the Ministry of Education to ensure its widespread transmission to new generations. The study of the Phya Kong Phya Phan folktale highlights its influence in contemporary society. Notably, proposing ways to applying local history for contemporary local development, such as the use of the folktale to enhance local tourism and resisting state and external economic pressures. This underscores the value of the folktale as a crucial cultural mechanism for sustaining the stability and continuity of local culture.