Nilai-Nilai Budaya dalam Kumpulan Cerita Rakyat Daerah Sumatera Utara Karya Jacob Umar dan Kawan-Kawan: Kajian Antropologi Sastra

Abstract

This study aims to identify and analyze the cultural values found in a collection of North Sumatran folktales by Jacob Umar and colleagues using a literary anthropology approach. The method employed is descriptive qualitative with literature study techniques, in which narrative and dialogue excerpts were analyzed to uncover cultural meanings rooted in society. The results show that the cultural values in these folktales are categorized into three main groups: (1) values in human relations with society, including mutual cooperation, wisdom, justice, and deliberation; (2) values in human relations with others, such as helping others, affection, obedience, and kindness; and (3) values in human relations with oneself, such as responsibility, perseverance, honesty, and hard work. For example, mutual cooperation is seen in community traditions such as collective work during traditional ceremonies and farming. Wisdom and justice are reflected in characters who make fair and thoughtful decisions. Deliberation is evident in collective decision-making within families and communities. Helping, affection, and obedience are shown through character traits, while responsibility, perseverance, honesty, and hard work are depicted through protagonists who are determined and resilient in pursuing their goals. These findings confirm that North Sumatran folktales not only serve as entertainment but also act as a medium for transmitting important cultural values that shape individual character and community identity. Moreover, these stories remain relevant for character education among the younger generation.