Structure, Social Function, and History Associated with Myths in Communities: Exploring the Myth of Giant Cave in Sanggulan Village, Tabanah Bali

Abstract

In contemporary society, the integration of mythical traditions persists in various villages and affiliated regions worldwide. Mythology is often linked to the enigmatic aspects of the natural world. Furthermore, it incorporates the presence of unseen nature in conjunction with human beings. The influence of these myths extends to the social function, history, and structure of a community, thereby exerting an impact on its overall development. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to examine the historical background, structural elements, and societal significance attributed to the Myth of Giant Cave in Sanggulan Village, Tabanah, Bali. This study employed interviews with local participants and utilised descriptive analysis techniques. The findings revealed that the narrative surrounding the Giant Cave continues to persist due to the prevalent practice of refraining from consuming embossed fruit (tiwul) and the perceived haunted nature of the cave, resulting in a collective reluctance to venture into its towering depths, comparable in height to a traditional Balinese dwelling. This observation demonstrates that the legend of the Giant Cave continues to exert an impact on the social and cultural progress of the local community. The influence of the village's history can also be observed in the oral tradition and community language. Furthermore, the village encompasses expansive rice fields and abundant vegetation, rendering it a highly appealing destination for tourists. The presence of the Giant Cave myth contributes to the promotion of tourism in the village. Nevertheless, the tourism sector also encounters various challenges. The educational landscape within the village has witnessed notable advancements over the course of time, resulting in favourable economic circumstances. Hence, the current study has also proven to be efficacious in offering various implications.