| dc.description.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. | en_US |
