Abstract:
Throughout the history of Sri Lanka, folklore has played a significant role
in defining the characteristics and hierarchy of people in society, with power
and style expressed through figurative language. This study reviews the
folklore of Kuweni to shed light on how the rise and fall of power is
expressed through the dress styles and adornment of ancient Sri Lanka, as
described in folklore traditions. “Kuweni”, in folklore, was the first female
ruler and her story represents a significant turning point of the antiquity of
the Sinhalese- the Sri Lankan nation. There are different mythical
characteristics intertwined with the story of Kuweni. As it unfolds, Kuweni
can be identified as the main inducement behind the victory of Prince Vijaya
who conquered the country, and Kuweni betrayed her own tribe in order to
seize power for the prince. It is believed that the Sinhalese nation originated
from Vijaya who captured the power of Sri Lanka with the help of native
princess Kuweni. Accordingly, the evolution of Kuweni’s character from an
individual woman to a lover, wife, mother and a single parent finally getting
murdered by her own tribe is an intriguing narrative of cultural significance.
Through analysis of literature, and a metaphorical approach to the analysis
of expressively-used mythical folklore of Kuweni, this study explores the
representations of her character’s power through style. Particularly, the
study contributes to the contextual understanding of power and style that
existed in the country at that time.
