A Linguistic Landscape Analysis of Sukhothai Historical Park
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58837/CHULA.PPJ.39.6Keywords:
Linguistic Landscape, Public Signage, Language Usage, Sukhothai Historical Park, English as an International LanguageAbstract
The objectives of this study were to investigate the linguistic landscape of Sukhothai Historical Park in terms of the types of public signage and language choices and to examine the attitudes of governmental officials, tour guides, and tourists towards the role of English in the chosen research site. A total of 288 pictures were taken to outline the different types of linguistic landscape items. The analysis was conducted, and it was revealed that the signs encompassed various categories, including name signs (29.51%), traffic signs (23.96%), information signs (15.97%), moral signs (15.28%), regulation signs (10.07%), and map signs (5.21%). The language choices were thoroughly examined. The findings indicated that all of the signs in the targeted area featured "Only Thai script signs (9.37%)," "Only English script signs (5.56%)," and the most frequently encountered type, “Bilingual Signs with Script in Thai and English (Thai with equivalent translation in English) (85.07%)." The existence of English in the signs signifies a strategy to attract international visitors as it allows them to comprehend the intended message with ease. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 local government employees, tour guides, and foreign tourists. The findings indicate that English is practical in providing guidance, meeting tourism needs, and supporting advertising campaigns. It facilitated communication, comforted foreign travellers, and symbolized an international and modern perspective.
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