Maria Nico Tale: Influences on the Siquijodnon’s Way of Life

The study investigates the influences of the Maria Nico tale on the Siquijodnon's way of life. It delves into the commonalities and variations of the versions of the collected tales, physical and social milieu, cultural aspects in belief and customs, and reflection of the present way of life in the tale. The study uses the qualitative method particularly the discourse analysis. The assumption is being supported by Jacquez Barzun's cultural criticism, Victor Shlovsky's formalism, and Kenneth Burke's sociological criticism. The commonalities of Maria Nico on the three tales are present in the deity's social status, residential address, and traits as being protective and generous, while its variation is depicted on its different appearances. The physical milieu of the Maria Nico tale illustrates the role of natural structures in the formation of the folklore while its social environment implies the creation of a community of believers and witnesses of Maria Nico. The oral literary tradition of Maria Nico caused the acculturation of residents with the existence of supernatural beings. The lore of Maria Nico influences the way of life of Siquijodnons from past to present, specifically in practicing the pagdiwata for protection and prosperity, considering the cave as a spiritual place, and continuing the accounts of Maria Nico due to its modern involvement. Based on the results, it is apparent that the Maria Nico tale influences the Siquijodnon's way of life. Future researchers may venture on the commonalities of Maria Nico and Maria Cacao. Scholars are urged to closely look into physical and social milieu of Maria Isa. Literary analysts are encouraged to explore the other deities that residents pay respect to. Literary critics are motivated to study the influence of the different festivals of Siquijorto the local's way of life.