The Wedding Dance is a short story by Amador Daguio that explores the significance of cultural values in a rural Philippine setting. The themes of love, honor, and loyalty are central to the story, and they shed light on the cultural practices and beliefs of the Igorot tribe.
Love is a significant cultural value in the Wedding Dance. The main characters, Awiyao and Lumnay, are a married couple who have been together for seven years without a child. In the Igorot culture, having children is a source of pride and honor, and failure to do so can lead to social ostracism. Awiyao marries another woman, hoping to produce a child. However, he still loves Lumnay and visits her secretly. The story shows that love is a powerful emotion that can transcend cultural norms.
Honor is another cultural value that is depicted in the story. The Igorot culture places a high value on honor, which is earned through bravery and courage. In the story, Awiyao is portrayed as a courageous and respected member of the tribe. However, the fact that he leaves Lumnay to marry another woman casts doubt on his honor. Lumnay’s decision to join the dance, knowing that it is a way to save face, also highlights the importance of honor in the culture.
Loyalty is a final cultural value that is explored in the Wedding Dance. The story shows that loyalty can be a source of pain and sorrow. Lumnay is loyal to Awiyao, and her pain at his decision to marry another woman is palpable. Loyalty is also depicted through the act of self-sacrifice. Lumnay sacrifices her own happiness to save face for Awiyao and herself, thereby demonstrating her loyalty to the culture.
In conclusion, the Wedding Dance is a poignant and powerful story that highlights the cultural values of love, honor, and loyalty in the Igorot tribe. The story shows that cultural values can shape individuals’ decisions and actions, and that these values can create both joy and pain. Ultimately, the Wedding Dance is a testament to the enduring nature of cultural values and their power over human lives.
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