A Synthesis of Ang Pagbabalik ng Panday; Propp's Morphology and the
Evolution of Philippine Mythology
I. Introduction of the Materials
The film ‘’Ang Pagbabalik ng Panday’’ by Fernando Poe Jr. is a classic
example of the Philippines' rich storytelling tradition, blending folklore,
heroism, and mythological motifs. Released in 1981, the film continues the
saga of Flavio, the legendary blacksmith (panday), who wields an
enchanted sword to fight malevolent forces threatening peace.
This narrative resonates deeply with Filipino audiences, rooted in the timeless
struggle between good and evil. By analyzing the film through Vladimir
Propp’s Morphology of the Folktale, I discover its adherence to universal
folktale structures while preserving distinct Filipino cultural elements. This
analysis not only identifies Proppian archetypes and functions but also
highlights the enduring relevance of such narratives in shaping cultural
identity and mythology in the Philippines.
II. Background of the Mythological or Folkloric Elements Presented
The central figure in the film, Flavio, embodies the archetype of the folk hero,
a character deeply embedded in Philippine oral traditions and mythology.
Historically, the panday represents more than a craftsman; it symbolizes
creativity, resilience, and the ability to harness natural and supernatural
forces to protect the community. The term panday translates to
‘’blacksmith,” a vital role in pre-colonial Filipino communities. Blacksmiths
were revered for their ability to create tools and weapons, often seen as
endowed with spiritual or magical significance. In the film, Flavio's enchanted
sword, a recurring element in folklore, serves as a metaphor for divine
intervention and justice.
The conflict in the film mirrors the duality prevalent in Filipino folklore. Much
like the aswang or manananggal embody malevolence in Philippine
mythology, the villain in the film disrupts societal order, involve the hero’s
intervention. These narratives reflect a cultural emphasis on communal
harmony and moral character.
III. Discussion on the Character and Their Roles Using Propp’s Framework
Vladimir Propp’s Morphology of the Folktale identifies 31 narrative functions
and seven character roles central to folktales. These concepts provide a lens
to analyze the film, revealing its structural parallels with traditional folklore. The
following discussion identifies the key characters and their alignment with
Proppian roles and functions.
1. Hero: Flavio (The Panday)
Flavio, played by Fernando Poe Jr., embodies the Proppian hero,
whose journey follows the classic folktale structure. As a blacksmith and
protector, he is tasked with defeating an evil overlord, restoring peace
and balance to the world. Propp’s functions of the hero, such as
Departure (Function 11) and Tests and Trials (Function 12), are evident
in Flavio’s journey, particularly when he leaves his village and
overcomes challenges with courage and skill (Propp, 1968).
Flavio’s use of the enchanted sword, a recurring element in many
Filipino folktales, also highlights his role as a hero. The sword symbolizes
his divine mission, akin to other folklore heroes like Lam-Ang of the
Ilocano epic, who also wields supernatural tools in battle (Guillermo,
2007).
2. Villain: The Dark Overlord
The antagonist, a representation of ultimate evil, fulfills the role of the
Proppian villain. This character embodies Villainy (Function 8) by
causing chaos and oppressing the innocent. The Dark Overlord’s
presence aligns with the Philippine folkloric tradition of supernatural
antagonists, such as the aswang or manananggal, whose
malevolence requires the intervention of a heroic figure (Cruz, 1986).
Propp’s theory emphasizes the centrality of conflict between the hero
and villain, which drives the narrative forward. In the film, this conflict
serves as the pivotal moment where Flavio’s virtues of courage and
determination are tested.
3. Donor: The Creator of the Enchanted Sword
Propp’s Morphology defines the donor as a character who provides
the hero with a magical agent, enabling success in their quest
(Provision of a Magical Agent, Function 14) (Propp, 1968).
In the film, the enchanted sword forged by Flavio holds significant
folkloric and symbolic meaning. The sword reflects Filipino beliefs in
supernatural artifacts as extensions of divine will, similar to the
legendary swords of pre-colonial folklore, such as the Kris used by Moro
warriors (Tolentino, 2001).
4. Dispatcher: The Community in Need
In Proppian terms, the dispatcher prompts the hero’s journey by
presenting the task or quest. This role is collectively embodied by the
oppressed villagers, whose suffering serves as Flavio’s primary
motivation to act (Call to Action, Function 1) (Propp, 1968). This reflects
the Filipino cultural value of bayanihan, where communal well-being
takes precedence over individual interests (Guillermo, 2007).
5. Helper: Ally Characters
Flavio’s journey is marked by the presence of helpers, both human and
supernatural, who guide him through challenges. These characters fulfill
Helper (Function 16) by providing assistance at critical moments. Their
inclusion emphasizes the importance of community and solidarity,
resonating with Filipino traditions of collective action against adversity
(Tolentino, 2001).
While the film, aligns with Propp’s functions, it also integrates uniquely Filipino
elements, such as Flavio’s moral obligation to serve his community and the
film’s emphasis on resilience and ingenuity. These cultural nuances
demonstrate how the universal structures identified by Propp adapt to the
Philippine context, blending traditional narrative patterns with local values.
IV. Significance of the Material in the Study of Folklore and Mythology in the
Philippine Context
The film holds significant value in understanding Philippine folklore and
mythology, blending traditional narratives with modern storytelling
techniques.
It performs key functions identified in folklore studies, including the
preservation of cultural identity. Through Flavio’s character and his mystical
sword, the film immortalizes the panday archetype as a symbol of Filipino
resilience and ingenuity. The narrative reinforces values such as courage,
justice, and selflessness, aligning with the didactic purpose of traditional
folktales. As a mainstream film, it engages a broad audience while rekindling
interest in Filipino mythology.
The film’s themes remain relevant in contemporary society, addressing
universal issues such as inequality and the pursuit for justice. By adapting
folkloric elements into modern cinema, ‘’Ang Pagbabalik ng Panday’’ serves
as a bridge between traditional oral narratives and contemporary media,
ensuring their survival for future generations.
Additionally, the film highlights the adaptability of folklore, showcasing how
traditional stories can be reimagined to resonate with evolving cultural
contexts while preserving their core messages.
V. Conclusion
In analyzing the film, through Vladimir Propp’s Morphology of the Folktale, it
becomes evident that the film aligns with universal narrative structures while
incorporating uniquely Filipino elements. The hero’s journey, the enchanted
sword, and the battle against evil reflect both global and local storytelling
traditions.
The film’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to merge folklore with
contemporary themes, reinforcing its cultural significance. By understanding
its narrative structure and mythological roots, we gain deeper insight into how
such stories continue to shape Filipino identity and values, serving as both a
link to the past and a guide for the future.
VI. References
Propp, V. (1968). Morphology of the Folktale. University of Texas Press.
Guillermo, A. (2007). Filipino Myths and Legends. University of the Philippines
Press.
Tolentino, R. B. (2001). Philippine Cinema and the Heroic Archetype. Ateneo
de Manila University Press.
Cruz, I. T. (1986). “Cinema as a Modern Medium for Filipino Folklore.”
Philippine Studies Journal, 34(2),123-145.
