Cultural Values in the Marilonga Heroic Folk Story Semiotic Study

Abstract

The folklore of Hero Marilonga is an oral tradition of the Ende-Lio community in East Nusa Tenggara, which records the struggle against Dutch colonial expansion while preserving the local cultural value system. This study aims to deconstruct the structure of semiotic signification and articulate the Ende-Lio cultural values embedded within the narrative. A descriptive qualitative method was employed using Roland Barthes' hermeneutic-semiotic approach. The primary data were gathered through in-depth interviews with Mosalaki (traditional leaders) and oral storytellers, as well as transcriptions of the oral narrative. The findings reveal three main domains of signification across the levels of denotation, connotation, and myth: (1) the motifs of physical invulnerability and sacred weapons (topo) represent transcendental spirituality and obedience to customary law (Pire/Nua) under the grace of Du'a Ngga'e and Embu Kajo; (2) the mountainous guerrilla battlefield and the rejection of colonial taxes (belasting) represent ecological patriotism and bravery (Kamba Cawa) in defending ancestral land sovereignty (Tana Walo Watu Peda); and (3) the ritual council scenes at Tubo Musu represent communal togetherness, customary democracy, and the spirit of brotherhood (Are pa'e nuka ata). This study concludes that the folklore of Marilonga is not merely a heroic historical tale, but a cultural encryption system serving as a moral compass and social guide relevant to the modern generation amidst globalization.