A SEMIOTIC ANALYSIS OF THE REPRESENTATION OF THAI-CHINESE SOCIETY IN THE TELEVISION DRAMA “TO SIR, WITH LOVE (KHUN CHAI)”

Abstract

This research focuses on examining the reflection of Thai-Chinese society through the semiotic elements presented in the television drama “To Sir, With Love (Khun Chai)”. The study employs Ferdinand de Saussure’s theory of semiotics as the analytical framework. The primary objective is to analyze the representation of Thai-Chinese family life as portrayed in the drama. A qualitative research method is used, emphasizing both denotative and connotative meaning analysis to uncover the underlying messages embedded in the narrative. The findings reveal that To Sir, With Love reflects Thai-Chinese society through its characters in three main aspects: 1) Gender roles - portraying masculinity, femininity, and societal attitudes toward gender diversity within the Thai-Chinese community; 2) Moral values - highlighting filial piety, parental love, and the mutual support among Thai-Chinese individuals; and 3) Cultural beliefs - depicting beliefs in ancestors, deities, and mythical creatures held by the Thai-Chinese community.