Progressive leadership education based on humanity literacy: revitalizing female heroic characters in Javanese folklores

Abstract

The restricted exploration of female heroic characters in Javanese folklore leads to a narrow understanding of leadership values, representing a key research gap in linking local cultural narratives to progressive leadership discourse amid global calls for inclusive, culturally grounded education. This research aims to uncover heroic female characters in Javanese folklore as the basis for progressive leadership education. The approach applied is qualitative. This type of research is ethnography because it examines folklore cultural symbols. The researchers acted as instruments and data collectors. Sources of research data were from informants. The informants referred to were the story caretakers or owners, considering the criteria: ethnicity, place of birth, place of life, language spoken, and age. Research data encompassed words, phrases, or sentences that indicated a public transcript. The data collection procedures in this study were interviews with the caretakers and documentation of Javanese folklore. Progressive leadership education can be developed by revitalizing the heroic values of Javanese folklore. Seven central values of heroism include politeness, thoroughness, cleverness, emotional intelligence, responsibility, assertiveness, and consistency. Of the seven values of heroism as the basis for the development of progressive leadership education, there are four crucial values: cleverness, consistency, assertiveness, and emotional intelligence. The traits exhibited by these female heroes can serve as a key reference point for progressive leadership by emphasizing local values.