Inventory and Symbolic Meaning of Traditional Ceremonies Related to the Mythology of Queen Kalinyamat in North Jepara

Abstract

The mythology of Queen Kalinyamat is very popular in the North Jepara area, especially Keling District, Donorojo District, Kembang District, Bangsri District, and Mlonggo District. Ratu Kalinyamat is known by the public as a legendary figure, because it is considered powerful, brave, patient, clever, loyal and has a defending spirit. Traditional ceremonies related to the mythology of the Queen Kalinyamat that developed in the Jepara region are quite a lot, for example the tradition of Tulemba Tulakan in Keling District. The focus of this research study relates to the inventory of traditional ceremonies with the same source, namely the mythology of Queen Kalinyamat. In addition, the symbolic meaning will be explored behind the traditional ceremony that has been inventoried. This is done as an initial step in the effort to preserve regional culture. The research implementation is carried out by applying qualitative research methods, through observation, interview, and documentation techniques. The collected data were analyzed using the comparative descriptive method.