Analyzing the Narrative Structure of the Sangkuriang Legend

The Sangkuriang legend, a captivating tale of love, betrayal, and tragic consequences, has captivated generations in Indonesia. This ancient myth, passed down through oral tradition and later documented in written form, offers a rich tapestry of themes and motifs that resonate with human experiences. Examining the narrative structure of the Sangkuriang legend reveals a compelling story that unfolds through a series of interconnected events, each contributing to the ultimate climax and resolution.

The Origins of Love and Betrayal

The legend begins with the story of Dayang Sumbi, a beautiful princess who lives in a secluded mountain. One day, she encounters a magical dog, which she adopts and names Tumang. Through a series of events, Dayang Sumbi discovers that Tumang is actually a cursed prince, transformed into a dog by a jealous rival. With the help of a magical potion, she breaks the curse, restoring Tumang to his human form. They fall deeply in love and eventually marry, giving birth to a son named Sangkuriang. The narrative establishes the foundation for the central conflict of the story, highlighting the themes of love, transformation, and the consequences of past actions.

The Seeds of Conflict

As Sangkuriang grows older, he becomes a handsome and strong young man, unaware of his true parentage. One day, while hunting, he accidentally kills a deer, which he brings home to his mother. Dayang Sumbi, recognizing the deer as her beloved pet, becomes enraged and curses Sangkuriang, causing him to lose his memory and wander aimlessly. This act of betrayal and the subsequent loss of memory set the stage for the tragic climax of the legend.

The Quest for Identity and the Tragic Encounter

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to find his true identity, Sangkuriang embarks on a journey. He eventually encounters a beautiful woman, unaware that she is his own mother, Dayang Sumbi. They fall in love, and Sangkuriang proposes marriage. Dayang Sumbi, recognizing her son in the young man, is horrified by the prospect of incestuous marriage. She devises a plan to prevent the union, demanding that Sangkuriang build a large boat within a single night.

The Climax and Resolution

Sangkuriang, determined to prove his love and fulfill his promise, works tirelessly throughout the night. As dawn approaches, he is close to completing the boat. Dayang Sumbi, fearing the consequences of her son's actions, uses her magical powers to disrupt his efforts. She releases a rooster, causing it to crow and signal the arrival of daybreak. Enraged by the betrayal, Sangkuriang kicks over the unfinished boat, causing it to capsize and sink. In a fit of rage, he chases after his mother, vowing to kill her. To prevent her son from harming her, Dayang Sumbi curses him, transforming him into a giant, and the mountain he was chasing her on into Mount Tangkuban Perahu, a volcano with a crater resembling an overturned boat.

The Sangkuriang legend concludes with a powerful message about the consequences of betrayal, the importance of recognizing one's true identity, and the enduring power of love and forgiveness. The narrative structure, with its interconnected events and escalating conflict, creates a compelling and tragic story that continues to resonate with audiences today.