Thematic Navigation of Legends: Unveiling Narrative Patterns and Cultural Themes
Abstract
Legends passed down over generations are cultural artifacts showing the social structures, beliefs, and traditions of a local community. This paper explores the narrative patterns and thematic elements of the legends from the 24 barangays of Baleno, Masbate, emphasizing their role in the preservation and reflection of community identity. A qualitative study design on narration, specifically narrative research method, assesses gathered stories through systematic analysis of recurring patterns and themes. The discovered patterns imply significant cultural and ethnic implications such as miscommunication of locals with colonizers; making descriptions of observable natural properties; and supernatural or paranormal situations occurred that shape their naming style considerably. Key to the legends are themes related to respect for nature, cultural resilience, spiritual beliefs, and the impact of historical events. Some of the essential narratives highlighted by the study is the preservation of cultural heritage, cultivation of pride among communities by ensuring that they find a place within the educational curricula as means to foster awareness and appreciation of native culture. Pedagogically, this study illuminates the fact that making the classroom as a more holistic, engaging, and culturally relevant place is essential across all EFL classrooms.
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
British and Irish Language, Literature and Culture
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Michael Estremera
*
0000-0002-4084-7391
Philippines
Razel Mingoy
0009-0008-6474-4742
Philippines
Early Pub Date
June 10, 2026
Publication Date
June 30, 2026
Submission Date
October 3, 2025
Acceptance Date
March 30, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 8 Number: 1