Cultural Colors Used By Maranaos And Tausugs As Reflections Of Their Characteristics And Behaviors

Abstract

Human intelligence and social life are very much dependent on the existence of signs. Looking for signs and finding its meaning may vary from one person to another. Human lives are basically characterized by signs that are intertwined. Charles Peirce even equated life as “perfusion of signs.” In this study, a semiotic analysis was applied to identify the color semiotics and if it has an impact to the Maranao and Tausug culture when it comes to social interaction in school and in society. Theories of Peirce and Kress’ multimodality were used. It was found out that true to the color semiotic analysis, the dominant colors used by the cultures Maranao and Tausug demonstrate their characters in dealing with society. The results showed that the use of signs and symbols are really important in meaning-making. In cultural semiotic, the uses of these signs basically lead to the culture's understands of themselves as well as the community. The signs and symbols were teamed together because society see and believes in their connection. These colors were used unconsciously as part of their culture. The research also showed that the use of colors is generally dictated by the cultures’ lifestyle and behaviors.