Phra Lak, Loyalty, and the Political Legitimation of the Rama I

Abstract

This article addresses the question of political implications in the Ramakien Epic, written by the King, the Thai version of the Ramayana, one version of which was prepared in 1797 under the supervision of, and partly written by, HM King Rama I. The character of Phra Lak, half-brother of Phra Ram, The Bodhisatta, son of the king Thotsarot of Ayutthaya, is focused on. Two parts of the Ramakien Epic as written by King Rama I are analyzed: 1) when Thotsakan, King of the Demons of Lanka and strongest of Phra Ram's adversaries, kidnaps Nang Sida, wife of Phra Ram, who embodies purity and fidelity; and 2) when Phra Ram orders Phra Lak to execute Nang Sida because she painted a portrait of Thotsakan for public viewing. The article uses Theo Van Leeuwen’s concept of legitimation as theoretical framework, with mythopoesis as the main subject for study. This article that this literary epic presents loyalty as principle role of the king’s younger brother, as expressed by King Rama I. This message offered a political hint to HRH Maharurasinghanat, Prince of Front Palace as the younger brother of HM King Rama I.