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Journal : Journal of English Language and Education

Toxic Masculinity in Short Stories: The Black Cat’ and the Tell-Tale Heart Arini, Putri Syahara; Nirmalawati, Widya
Journal of English Language and Education Vol 10, No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Pahlawan Tuanku Tambusai

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.31004/jele.v10i1.590

Abstract

Toxic masculinity is a manifestation of excessive masculine dominance, including violence, aggression, and suppression of emotions. This study analyses how toxic masculinity is reflected in two of Edgar Allan Poe's short stories, The Black Cat (1845) and The Tell-Tale Heart (1843). Using a qualitative approach and R. W. Connell's theory of hegemonic masculinity, this study reveals that toxic masculinity in both stories is seen through aggressive domination, violence against weak groups, and the failure of the main characters to manage their emotions. In The Black Cat, toxic masculinity manifests through violence against animals and his wife, fuelled by alcoholism. Meanwhile, in The Tell-Tale Heart, the physical domination of an old man reflects the need to assert power. This research demonstrates the relevance of this phenomenon to the challenges of modern society and recommends interdisciplinary analyses to deepen the understanding of the impact of toxic masculinity on social relationships.
Navigating Bisexual Identity in Baby Reindeer: A Queer Content and Narrative Analysis. Hanita, Salsabila Nur; Nirmalawati, Widya
Journal of English Language and Education Vol 10, No 4 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Pahlawan Tuanku Tambusai

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.31004/jele.v10i4.1042

Abstract

Sexual identity is influenced by personal experiences, social norms, and cultural expectations. Although research on LGBTQ+ issues has increased in recent years, stories about bisexual men who have experienced trauma remain limited and underrepresented. This study explores how the Netflix series Baby Reindeer, based on the real-life story of Richard Gadd, presents the complex journey of discovering sexual identity through trauma and emotional struggle. Using qualitative content analysis and narrative analysis guided by queer theory—particularly the ideas of Michel Foucault and Judith Butler—this research focuses on three key episodes to examine how power, identity, and social pressure affect the main character, Donny. The findings reveal that Donny’s struggle illustrates how bisexual identity is shaped by shame, silence, and the need for acceptance. Baby Reindeer offers a meaningful portrayal of queer male experiences and serves as a powerful example of how media can challenge stereotypes and foster deeper understanding of sexual identity.
Psychoanalytic Exploration of Momma's Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Defense Mechanisms in Never Let Go Nisa, Clarissa Adaira; Nirmalawati, Widya
Journal of English Language and Education Vol 10, No 4 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Pahlawan Tuanku Tambusai

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.31004/jele.v10i4.1099

Abstract

This study explores Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as portrayed in the character of Momma, the main character in Never Let Go (2024), and her use of defense mechanisms to cope with her past trauma. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, through Bessel Van Der Kolk's trauma theory and Sigmund Freud's concept of defense mechanisms, this study reveals Momma's extreme measures in isolating her children and enforcing strict rules by avoiding “The Devil” as a result of her grief and fear of loss. Data was collected from scenes, dialogues, and visual components, focusing on Momma's overprotective behavior towards her children. The researcher found several components of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms, namely intrusive memories, avoidance, emotional numbness, and hyperarousal. At the same time, three characteristics of defense mechanisms are reflected in Momma, namely projection, denial, and displacement. This research shows the relevance of trauma shaping patterns of behavior, especially in a mother, as well as the relationship between psychological trauma, especially the body's response to traumatic experiences, the maternal relationship, and excessive parenting behavior.
Irony in Roald Dahl’s The Umbrella Man Using Booth’s Theory Salsabila, Shafwa; Nirmalawati, Widya; Wahyuningsih, Titik; Nurhayati, Sulasih
Journal of English Language and Education Vol 11, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Universitas Pahlawan Tuanku Tambusai

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.31004/jele.v11i1.1985

Abstract

This study analyzes the use of irony in Roald Dahl’s short story The Umbrella Man using Wayne C. Booth’s theory of irony. The study aims to examine how stable and unstable irony function as narrative strategies to construct meaning and moral criticism in the story. Employing a qualitative descriptive method and close reading, the analysis focuses on narrative events, character behavior, and dialogue that reveal ironic contrasts between appearance and reality. The findings indicate that the story predominantly employs stable irony to guide readers toward a clear moral judgment, particularly through the umbrella man’s deceptive politeness and apparent helplessness. Although the narrative presents moments of moral ambiguity, these elements do not destabilize meaning but instead reinforce the satirical critique of misplaced trust and social vulnerability. The study concludes that irony in The Umbrella Man operates as a rhetorical device that shapes reader interpretation and delivers social criticism within a seemingly simple narrative.