The Identity of the Hero in Lao Myths

Abstract

A survey of Lao culture reveals that there are numerous heroic characters with diverse traits that represent significant dimensions of culture in Lao society. This article aims to study the identity of the hero in Lao myths primarily by applying the concept of motif in order to understand and interpret myths. It is based found on a study which found that the concept of motif can help identify heroes and their role in Lao culture. The author organized motifs into three categories: object motifs, character motifs, and event or behavior motifs. This article presents the perception and meaning of heroes in Lao cultural dimensions that have been passed on from generation to generation to the present.