Manga Simoket: The Sequence of Conflict in the Meranaw Epic Darangen

Hammim Casan

doi:10.47175/rissj.v6i4.1227

Hammim Casan Mindanao State University-Main Campus

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47175/rissj.v6i4.1227

Keywords: sequence, conflict, Meranaw epic, Darangen

Abstract

This study critically analyzes Volume 1 of the Meranaw epic Darangen as a narrative of peace woven through structured sequences of conflict. The epic is not just a literary artifact, but a reflection of a dynamic cultural construct based on Meranaw values like maratabat (honor), kinship, and leadership. Using critical discourse analysis, this study reveals that conflicts ranging from absent leadership and unmarried king to dishonesty and damaged reputation are not arbitrary but serve as moral elements on the journey of peace in the Meranaw community today. These conflicts are settled using traditional mechanisms that parallel modern Meranaw practices like totonganaya (kinship) and agama justice systems that shed light on an indigenous conflict resolution logic that is relevant to the Meranaw people today. This also fills a gap in Meranaw studies by focusing and analyzing the sequence of conflicts in relation to the current realities of the Meranaw people like rido and maratabat. The findings also show that the epic provides not only literary and cultural significance, but also frameworks for addressing conflicts in the Meranaw community today. Finally, this study repositions the epic as a living socio-cultural archive and a moral compass which demonstrates that within its verses exist essential means for peacebuilding, leadership, and cultural preservation despite the challenges of the present-day Meranaw community.

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