Being Gentlemen and Background Concepts of Male Characters in the Novel Titled Mawlamyine Rose Written by Major General Luang Wichitwathakarn

Abstract

This article aimed to study and analyze the gentlemanliness and male characters’ background concepts in “Mawlamyine Rose” by Major General Luang Wichitwatakarn through the novel’s plot. The findings showed that male characters were gentlemen in the form of aristocrats; they were born into a high family and well-educated, reflecting their privilege. They were honest and maintained friendships. Nevertheless, they proceeded selfishly without considering women’s values and feelings. Regarding sobriety solemn, the male characters lacked this feature because they behaved like mischievous children without being irresponsible. Based on the property of honoring ladies, the male characters did not have this feature either because they harassed the female characters, which was the main cause leading to the story’s chaos, in the dimension of being a commoner gentleman. The findings showed that this qualification was not found. To the extent of being an ethical gentleman, the male characters were morally irrational and unable to control themselves. When considering the background concepts of male characters, it showed the male-dominated, feminism, and sexual politics as well as social class concepts.