"Khun Chang Khun Phaen" is an old folk story in the Thai language. It originated as a folk entertainment some time around 1600 A.D., developed by storytellers who recited episodes for local audiences, and passed on the story by word-of-mouth. By the eighteenth century, such performances had become the most popular form of entertainment in Siam. The storytellers recounted the story in stylized recitation, using two small sticks of wood ("krap") to give rhythm and emphasis. The performances typically lasted a full night.