Narrative Structure and Meaning of Amnesia in Thai Romance Novels
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Abstract
This research aimed to examine the narrative structures and the underlying meanings of amnesia in Thai Romance novels. Using a qualitative approach, the study conducted a textual analysis of 28 novels published in book form, applying Vladimir Propp's narrative structure theory and Louis Althusser's ideology theory as the analytical framework. The findings revealed that character behaviors could be categorized into 22 distinct types (Behaviors A-V), which subsequently led to the classification of five narrative patterns: 1) Romance and the quest for identity; 2) Romance and suspense involving an amnesiac protagonist; 3) Romance and suspense where the protagonist interacted with an amnesiac character; 4) Romance involving twins; and 5) Romance with complex or recurring amnesia. Regarding the underlying meanings, the study found that Thai novels did not present amnesia through medical or scientific dimensions. Instead, it was employed as a literary device to create conflict, conveying four primary meanings: 1) An opportunity for a new beginning; 2) A test of true love; 3) A mechanism to prove one's inner virtue; and 4) A safe space. Furthermore, amnesia functioned to erase fractured past relationships, restoring them to a state of purity and resulting in a positive resolution. Although these were romance novels that prioritizing emotional appeal over scientific realism, the ideologies present in these works continued to uphold traditional values and honor those with inherent goodness, ensuring they received a rewarding conclusion.
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