Struktur Naratif dan Pola Oposisi Biner dalam Cerita Rakyat Indonesia: Kajian Strukturalisme terhadap Malin Kundang, Batu Menangis, dan Keong Mas

Abstract

This study examines the narrative structure and binary oppositions in three Indonesian folktales: Malin Kundang (Sumatra), Batu Menangis (Kalimantan), and Keong Mas (Java), through a structuralist lens. The aim is to identify the intrinsic literary elements of the stories and explore the underlying cultural mindset reflected through narrative patterns and symbolic oppositions. The analysis employs Vladimir Propp’s theory of narrative functions alongside Claude Lévi-Strauss’s framework of binary oppositions. Findings indicate that all three tales share similar narrative patterns, particularly in character transformation and moral cause-and-effect dynamics. Binary oppositions such as obedient vs rebellious, human vs nature, and suffering vs happiness emerge as key narrative drivers and meaning-makers. This research concludes that Indonesian folktales function not only as sources of entertainment but also as educational tools and vehicles for transmitting cultural values across generations. They reflect collective ways of thinking within traditional society and can serve as valuable resources for character education grounded in local culture, particularly within contemporary educational contexts.