Representation of Satya in Kakawin Smaradahana: Critical Discourse Analysis Van Dijk

Abstract

This research examines the representation of satya in Kakawin Smaradahana. Kakawin Smaradahana is one of the Old Javanese literary works that not only possesses aesthetic value but also contains moral teachings, ethical principles, and philosophical values that remain relevant to contemporary society. One of the central values embedded in this work is satya, which refers to loyalty, honesty, and commitment. However, in modern society, the meaning and practice of satya have gradually declined. Therefore, this research aims to contribute to the revitalization of the practice of satya by examining how it is represented in Kakawin Smaradahana. This study employs Van Dijk’s Critical Discourse Analysis model to examine three dimensions, namely textual structure, social cognition, and social context. The data consist of lexicons, sentences, and stanzas collected from the Kakawin Smaradahana manuscript. Data were collected through a literature review supported by transliteration, translation, and note-taking techniques, and were subsequently analyzed through data reduction, classification, and interpretation. The findings reveal that satya is represented through Dewi Ratih’s loyalty to Sang Hyang Smara. This representation is constructed through the thematic organization, schematic structure, and linguistic elements that convey the value of loyalty. Furthermore, the analyses of social cognition and social context demonstrate that the author not only represents the value of satya but also constructs a positive image of King Sri Kameswara through the literary patronage system of the Kediri Kingdom. Therefore, the representation of satya in Kakawin Smaradahana is not merely presented as a moral value but is also systematically constructed through discourse structure, the process of text production, and the social context in which the text was produced.