Soal Narrative Text, Soal, Jawaban "The Legend of Mount Tangkuban Perahu"

The Legend of Mount Tangkuban Perahu

In the highlands of West Java, Indonesia, lies the legendary Mount Tangkuban Perahu, shaped like an overturned boat. The story begins with a beautiful woman named Dayang Sumbi, who possessed magical weaving skills. One day, she threw her shuttle away in frustration, vowing to marry whoever returned it. A god, disguised as a dog, retrieved it, and she kept her promise, unaware of his true form.

Years later, the god, now known as Sangkuriang, fell in love with Dayang Sumbi, not realizing she was his mother. When she discovered the truth, she sought to prevent their marriage by setting an impossible task: to build a dam on the river Citarum and a boat to cross it, all before sunrise. Sangkuriang nearly completed the task with the help of supernatural beings, but Dayang Sumbi tricked him by creating the illusion of dawn. In a fit of rage, Sangkuriang kicked the boat, turning it into the mountain we know today.

Essay Questions and Answers:

What is the significance of the setting in the legend?
The setting is crucial as it embodies the Sundanese connection to nature and their belief in the supernatural. Mount Tangkuban Perahu itself is a symbol of unfulfilled love and the consequences of divine wrath.
How does the legend reflect the cultural values of the Sundanese people?
The legend emphasizes respect for elders, the sanctity of motherhood, and the tragic consequences of defying societal norms.
What role does fate play in the legend?
Fate is a dominant theme, as the predestined relationship between Dayang Sumbi and Sangkuriang is unavoidable despite their efforts.
Analyze the character of Dayang Sumbi in the story.
Dayang Sumbi is a complex character, embodying both nurturing and deceptive qualities, reflecting the dual nature of humanity.
Discuss the use of supernatural elements in the story.
Supernatural elements highlight the belief in a world beyond human understanding and control, where deities and spirits interact with mortals.
What does the story suggest about the power of love and anger?
The story illustrates that love can transcend divine boundaries, but anger can lead to irreversible consequences.
How does the legend explain natural phenomena?
The legend provides a mythological explanation for the creation of Mount Tangkuban Perahu, attributing its formation to Sangkuriang’s rage.
What lessons can be learned from Sangkuriang’s actions?
Sangkuriang’s actions teach us about the importance of self-control and the dangers of acting on impulse.
Compare and contrast the legend with other creation myths.
Similar to other creation myths, this legend uses a narrative to explain natural landmarks, incorporating moral and cultural lessons.
What is the impact of the legend on contemporary Sundanese society?
The legend remains a cultural touchstone, reinforcing local identity and attracting tourists to the region.

True/False Questions and Answers:

Dayang Sumbi was a mortal woman. (True)
Sangkuriang was aware that Dayang Sumbi was his mother when he fell in love with her. (False)
The task to build a dam and a boat overnight was a test of Sangkuriang’s love. (False, it was to prevent their marriage.)
Sangkuriang completed the tasks with the help of humans. (False, he had the help of supernatural beings.)
Dayang Sumbi created an illusion of sunrise to trick Sangkuriang. (True)
The legend takes place in Central Java. (False, it takes place in West Java.)
Sangkuriang’s transformation into a dog was due to a curse. (True)
The boat Sangkuriang kicked turned into Mount Merapi. (False, it became Mount Tangkuban Perahu.)
The legend serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of anger. (True)
Mount Tangkuban Perahu is a mythical place that does not exist in reality. (False, it is a real mountain in Indonesia.)