Sevira, Eti Setiawati

The Myth of the God Fish in Monte's Hair Pond as a Conservation Narrative

Introduction

The myth of the god fish in monte's hair pond as a conservation narrative. Explore the "God Fish" myth in Monte Hair Lake. This study reveals its powerful role as a conservation narrative for endemic animals, preserving habitats and aquatic ecosystem awareness.

Abstract

This research aims to explore and examine the meaning of the mythical narrative of the God Fish in the Monte Hair Lake as part of efforts to conserve endemic animals and preserve their habitats. Oral literature in the form of myths in the region is examined and scrutinized in order to find values that are full of the call to protect nature and the living things that exist in it. This study uses a qualitative approach through narrative analysis as a method, with Roland Barthes' semiotic theory and Durkheim's theory of belief as the basis of the analysis. The data used were in the form of oral speech, phenomena, and behaviors that had indications related to animal conservation efforts and literature review. The data sources in the study were the key interpreters and the community around the lake in the form of data in the form of oral narrative speech. Structured interview techniques and literature review collected data. Based on the research that has been carried out, the findings in this study show several forms of myths spread in the region, including that the God Fish is told as the incarnation of a royal warrior, cannot be consumed, has luck, and is sacred. The existence of myths in the Monte Hair area has a function to strengthen collective awareness to maintain the existence of the God Fish as a 'protector' of the local aquatic ecosystem of the Monte Hair Lake.

Review

This research presents a compelling exploration into the intersection of cultural narratives and environmental conservation, focusing on the myth of the God Fish in Monte's Hair Pond. The paper's aim to uncover the meaning of this mythical narrative as a strategy for conserving endemic species and their habitats is highly relevant in an era seeking sustainable, locally-grounded conservation solutions. By examining oral literature for inherent values that encourage nature protection, the study highlights the often-underestimated power of indigenous knowledge and spiritual beliefs in fostering ecological stewardship. This interdisciplinary approach, bridging folklore, anthropology, and conservation science, offers valuable insights into how traditional narratives can serve as potent tools for collective environmental responsibility. The methodology employed is well-suited to the research questions, utilizing a qualitative approach with narrative analysis. The theoretical framework, drawing on Roland Barthes' semiotic theory and Durkheim's theory of belief, provides a robust lens through which to analyze the intricate layers of meaning embedded within the myth and its societal function. Data collection through structured interviews with key interpreters and community members around Monte Hair Lake, complemented by literature review, ensures a comprehensive gathering of oral speech, observed phenomena, and behaviors. The findings clearly articulate several facets of the God Fish myth – its sacredness, identity as a warrior incarnation, and association with luck – culminating in the crucial observation that these myths actively strengthen collective awareness to protect the local aquatic ecosystem, effectively positioning the God Fish as a 'protector.' While the abstract demonstrates a strong foundation, future development could enrich the understanding of specific mechanisms through which the myth translates into conservation action. A deeper semiotic analysis, for instance, could unpack how the 'warrior incarnation' aspect *specifically* reinforces conservation behaviors, beyond general sacredness. Furthermore, clarifying the precise identity of the "key interpreters" (e.g., elders, shamans, community leaders) would add further credibility to the data sources. Exploring the potential challenges or declines in the myth's efficacy in modern contexts, or how it adapts to external pressures, could also offer a more nuanced perspective on its long-term viability as a conservation narrative.

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