ตัวละครวิกลจริตในเรื่องสั้นไทย (พ.ศ. 2520-2538)

Abstract

This thesis is a study of insane characters in Thai short stories, published during 1977-1995. The study aims at considering the characterization of the insane characters, the relationship between insane characters and other characters, as well as messages of writers conveyed through the insane characters and relevant impacts. Data is devided from collected short story books and 10 magazines published at least 5 years consecutively.

The analysis profiles the evidence to support that writers intentionally use insane characters to convey the messages of the stories. Various techniques are employed, such as giving them leading roles, physical and mental characterization, giving backround and status, and relationship with other factors in the story. With regard to messages of the stories, insane characters disclose failure of social institution, criticize social values, reflect social problems, as well as point out that nowadays economy has the supreme influence over other factors in society. The technique of of conveying messages through insane characters is beneficial in many ways.

The messages can be sharply delivered, but at the same time they cannot be taken too seriously because the writers can claim that they come from insane characters. In addition, readers can be psychological influenced, when judging insane character ' thinkings as quite normal or sensible. This can prompt readers to criticize socialization process which is a criteria in judging sanity or insanity of people in the society.