Symbolic Form of Puppets in Character Wayang Golek Purwa Sunda

Abstract

Wayang golek purwa Sunda is a sublime art with philosophical aspects. The performance involves many equipment and elements. The elements of wayang golek purwa are all equipment dalang when he’s performing, which in this research is limited to wayang.  This study aims to discuss symbolism's meaning in these elements. To explain it, the semiotic theory from Charles Sanders Peirce was used in this study. The analytical description was used, that is, by analyzing all the data found in the study, then describing it using the scientific theory used and combining it with other literature studies. The study's results expose the meanings of the puppet element of the performance.  It contains correlations with the concepts of Sundanese human living, from birth to death. Accordingly, the performance is just not a spectacle. Based on the resulting study, wayang golek contains educational values closely related to the teachings of humanity in the identity of the Sundanese people. 

Keywords: wayang golek purwa, dalang, meanings, symbol