INFLUENCE OF BUDDHISM IN LAO FOLK LITERATURE THROUGH SOME REPRESENTATIVE WORKS

DOI: 10.18173/2354-1067.2025-0040

Abstract

Lao folk literature constitutes a rich cultural heritage in which the influence of Buddhism is particularly prominent. Through multiple channels, Buddhism has entered Laos, along with the presence of Buddhist literature from India into the “Land of a Million Elephants.” Drawing on the typological method, this article examines several representative works of Lao folk literature to analyze the influence of Buddhist elements in terms of plot, character image, and motif. From there, we can draw conclusions about the process of exchange, contact, and assimilation of Buddhist literature in Lao traditions.