LITERARY ECOCRITICISM IN THE ORAL TRADITIONS OF CIAMIS REGENCY

CULTURAL CONSERVATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES IN THE KADATUAN GALUH PAKUAN COMMUNITY

Abstract

This study aims to explore and analyze environmental (ecological)
values in the oral traditions of the Ciamis community using a literary
ecocriticism approach. The research focuses on how folklore, songs
(tembang), mantras, and proverbs (petatah-petitih) are inherited to
maintain the balance between humans and nature. Ciamis Regency
possesses a rich variety of oral traditions, which function not only as
entertainment but also contain ecological messages reflecting the
community's worldview. However, modern lifestyle shifts have
caused these values to be neglected. Employing a qualitative
descriptive method, data were collected from key cultural sites
including Kampung Kuta, Panjalu, Rancah, and Karangkamulyan.
The results indicate that Ciamis oral traditions are laden with
ecological messages, categorized into four themes: (1) Forest
conservation through the "Leuweung Larangan" myth; (2) Water
glorification through the "Nyangku" ceremony; (3) Agricultural ethics
in "Nyi Sri Pohaci" praises; and (4) Human-animal relationships in the
"Ciung Wanara" legend. These traditions serve as vital resources for
building environmental awareness and strengthening community
character.