Reflections on the Application of Critical Discourse Analysis to the Legend of Malin Kundang

This article examines the application of Critical Discourse Analysis (AWK) to the legend of Malin Kundang which originates from Minangkabau culture, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Specifically, this article aims to explore how the legend of Malin Kundang displays and influences social values, power and ideology in society. This critical discourse analysis uses an approach developed by Fairclough and van Dijk which combines text and illustrations. The object of this research is the legend of Malin Kundang itself. As one of the cultural treasures of the archipelago, the legend of Malin Kundang acts as a medium for moral learning which emphasizes the importance of filial piety towards parents and obedience to social norms. The result is that this legend reveals the dynamics of power and social class, and strengthens the collective identity of the Minangkabau people through cultural representation. This article concludes that the application of AWK offers an alternative and provides a critical perspective on the role of folklore in forming and maintaining social structures.