| Abstract: |
In this paper I wish to submit the socio-linguistic method which I have used in the study of epigraphy for two decades now. The method consists of looking at epigraphic texts as mere linguistic documents, which represent the expression of the reality surrounding the ancient Khmer community and the people's view of it. We concentrate on details of vocabulary (lexicon, proper names, and appellatives). After a thorough semantic analysis of each item we will put them all together while collating the mass of texts available to us so far. Through this operation we will spot many facets of the ancient society, which eventually will enable us to reconstruct the picture of it. The present paper will report on the first positive results of our research on society, as exemplified mainly by: 1. its ethnic constitution
and 2. its class-based structure, i.e., a non-caste society, and constant mobility. After this general survey, I shall take up two main historic themes: kingship and religious foundation, which have preoccupied scholars to a great degree. The anatomizing of their vocabularies will help us to get the most accurate picture of the people.
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