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The article “Time in Transition: King Narai and the Luang Prasoet Chronicle of Ayutthaya” by Ian Hodges examines a pivotal moment in Thai historiography during the reign of King Narai. Focusing on the Luang Prasoet Chronicle, written by the Chief Royal Astrologer in 1681, the article explains how astrological timekeeping and historical narrative were combined to create a new form of dynastic history. It traces how this chronicle influenced the development of Thai historical writing for centuries to come.
This study highlights Thai values of intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and the integration of knowledge systems from astrology, Buddhism, and historical inquiry. The Thailand Foundation invites you to explore this article as an insight into how Thai concepts of time, power, and history evolved during a transformative era of global engagement.
Author: Ian Hodges
This article was published in the Journal of the Siam Society and is being shared on the Thailand Foundation website with permission from The Siam Society.
