Malaysian folktales: An understanding of the motif- index of folk literature applicability in the local folktales’ context

Abstract

The motif of the folktale is essentially the smallest and striking elements of narrative content with the ability to endure in tradition. It is divided into three categories: actor, item and single incident. These categories become the foundation that supports the built of the original motif-index of folk literature by Stith Thompson. Nevertheless, the index, as an analysis tool, was developed based on an analysis conducted on mostly European folk literature (folktale inclusive). It is a question dawned on the researcher regarding the applicability of the universal motifs and sub-motifs listed in the index on Malaysian folktales considering such local folktales were not involved in the making of the index many moons ago. Therefore, the study seeks to understand the applicability of the original motif-index in the local folktales’ context. The qualitative text analysis method was mainly employed in Atlas.ti, a computer-aided qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS) to propel the study in understanding the scenario stated. Being the heart of the article, it is found that the original motif-index is indeed applicable in the local folktales’ context to a certain extent. Inopportunely, not all the universal motifs from the index exist in the local folktales. The applicability and dispersion of the motif classes’ weight which leans toward the D. Magic class, is heavily influenced by the differences between the local and the European cultures because truly what is folktale if not a fruit of a unique culture.