Bussamalee: The Role of Female Protagonist in Lakhon Nork Baep Luang “Phra Samut”

Abstract

This article aims to present the history, nature,and character of Bussamalee by exploring related documents,textbooks, and the play Phra Samut composed by Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Wichaichan. It is found that Bussamalee is an adopted daughter of Lord Ronnachak and Lady Wannasoon. She is gorgeous and has beautiful voice which covers the ideal characteristics of a woman. She is also smart and able to face any problems by playing tricks bravely to protect herself and her loved ones when they are in danger. The finding indicates that Bussamalee is well-educated, so she is able to think logically, negotiate, and solve the problems in any circumstances on her own. Such characteristics are different from Thailand's social norm in the past when most of women were looked after by men.