DOI: 10.5176/2251-3566_L31266
Authors: Nuntana Wongthai
Abstract: The aim of this research is to study the conceptual metaphors of death in Thai. The data were collected from the memorial funeral books printed during 1978 – 2007. The analysis is primarily based on the theory of conceptual metaphor. The results disclose not only the conceptual metaphors of death in Thai but also the relationships between the beliefs concerning death among Thai people and their religion. In addition, this research reveals the basis of thought among Thais. Although it is generally known that Buddhism is considered the major religion in Thailand, Thai people partially believe in animism, which pre-dated the arrival of Buddhism. Most Thais believe that death is only the end of the body state but the spirit still exists for the cycle of rebirth. The belief in immortal spirituality after death does not originate from Buddhism, but from Brahmanism. The study of the linguistic expressions Thai people use to talk about death can reflect the metaphorical concepts of death widespread throughout Thai culture.
Keywords: conceptual metaphor; death; Thai culture
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