#ClassicalLiterature

Inao, known in Thai as อิเหนา, stands as one of Southeast Asia’s most cherished pieces of classical literature. Its tale blends love, fate, royal duty, and political intrigue, captivating Thai audiences for generations. Rooted in the Javanese Panji stories, the narrative traveled to the Siamese court in Ayutthaya and was refined by royal poets of the Rattanakosin era. To truly understand its drama, readers should become acquainted with the main characters—their motives and how they reflect social ideals of their time.

The Ramakien is Thailand’s national epic, deeply woven into the nation’s culture, art, and literature. Adapted from the Indian Ramayana, it reflects a uniquely Thai blend of Hindu and Buddhist motifs, royal tradition, and local creativity. For Thai readers and curious travelers alike, understanding who’s who in the Ramakien helps decode temple murals, khon performances, and contemporary storytelling.

The tale centers on Phra Ram, his loyal brother Phra Lak, and Hanuman, the brave monkey general, as they strive to rescue Nang Sida from the demon king Thotsakan. Along the journey, a diverse cast—gods, demons, animals, and magical beings—explore themes of love, loyalty, heroism, and the consequences of pride. This guide highlights the major figures through context that resonates with Thai culture and modern life.

Inao, known in Thai as “อิเหนา,” is among the most celebrated masterpieces of classical Thai literature. Its tale—woven with themes of love, fate, royal duty, and rivalry—has captivated Thai audiences for centuries. Based on the Javanese Panji stories, the narrative found its place in the Siamese court during the Ayutthaya period and was later adapted and refined by royal poets of the Rattanakosin era. But to fully grasp the drama’s depth, it’s crucial to know its key characters—their roles, motivations, and how they reflect the social ideals and dilemmas of their era.

The Ramakien, Thailand’s national epic, sits at the heart of Thai culture, art, and literature. Adapted from the Indian Ramayana, the Ramakien has developed its own distinctive flavor—blending Hindu and Buddhist influences with vivid Thai creativity. Central to the Ramakien are its unforgettable characters, whose tales of love, loyalty, heroism, and betrayal have shaped generations of Thai storytelling, classical dance, visual arts, and even temple murals. For Thai readers seeking to understand these stories or visitors wanting to decode the elaborate scenes painted across Wat Phra Kaew, knowing “who’s who” in the Ramakien is essential.