An Eco-narrative Study of Creation Myths in Lao Folktales

Abstract

This research article aims to analyze the semantic structures and classify the types of creation myths in Lao folktales as eco-narratives. The data utilized in this study consist of ten folktales categorized as Theb Niyai (myths) and Phun Sueb (chronicles), sourced from the book titled “Bod Leung Phun Mueang Lao: Theb Niyai lae Phun Sueb” by Khamphui Phompila (2008). The analysis was conducted based on Arran Stibbe’s eco-narrative framework, focusing on three main dimensions: the agency of nature, ecological metaphors and eco-cultural identity, and the construction of environmental ethics. The findings reveal that Lao creation myths can be classified into four groups: multicultural creation, heroic triumph over natural disasters, covenants for survival, and symbolic punishments. Regarding the ecological components, the study demonstrates that: 1) in terms of agency, the myths prominently assign autonomous power (non-human agency) to plants, animals, and natural phenomena; 2) regarding metaphors and identity, the tales employ ecological metaphors that conceptualize the world as a “gourd” (Mak Nam Tao Pung) or an organic womb, while positioning humans merely as “tenant-members” and partners with other living species; and 3) in terms of environmental ethics, the myths construct a "survival ethics" centered on the ethics of care and covenant systems, illustrating that ecological punishments occur if humans violate natural laws. In conclusion, Lao creation myths function as beneficial narratives that challenge anthropocentric discourse and foster an ecocentric mindset for sustainable coexistence.