LANGUAGE AND SOCIO-CULTURE THROUGH THE LOCAL LITERATURES OF SURIN AND SISAKET

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate the social and cultural aspects reflected in the local literatures of Surin and Sisaket provinces. The study employed a qualitative research approach using content analysis of local literary documents compiled and published by the Surin Provincial Cultural Center. The sources of data included folk tales, riddles, and traditional proverbs. The research instrument was a data recording form developed based on linguistic, social, and cultural analytical frameworks. The collected data were categorized and analyzed to identify the social and cultural characteristics presented in the local literatures, and the findings were presented through descriptive analysis.

          The results revealed that the local literatures of Surin and Sisaket reflected several dimensions of social and cultural life within the communities. These included: (1) ways of life related to rural living and agricultural occupations; (2) family and community relationships emphasizing gratitude, respect for elders, and mutual support; (3) beliefs and religious values reflecting faith in sacred beings and the concept of karma; (4) moral conduct and social practices that promote ethical behavior and appropriate ways of living according to social norms; and (5) local wisdom representing accumulated knowledge, experiences, and practical life concepts of the community. The findings indicate that local literatures serve as important cultural resources that reflect social structures, beliefs, values, and local wisdom, and play a significant role in preserving and transmitting cultural identity within local communities.