Muse: Jurnal of Art
Volume 4 Nomor 1 Juli 2025

HEGEMONY IN UNTOUCHABLE BY MULK RAJ ANAND

Lovenna Theresia Parapat (Fakultas Ilmu Budaya Universitas Katolik Santo Thomas)
Anselmus Chartino Ade (Fakultas Ilmu Budaya Universitas Katolik Santo Thomas)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the social hierarchy and marginalization in Mulk Raj Anand's Untouchable through the theory of Cultural Marxism, especially Antonio Gramsci's concept of hegemony. This study uses a qualitative narrative method with a descriptive approach. The method used is descriptive qualitative. Data collection was conducted through several steps, namely reading and understanding the novel thoroughly, noting relevant quotations, collecting supporting theoretical references, and classifying the data into categories. Data analysis used the Miles and Huberman framework, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results of the study show that the social hierarchy in the novel is reflected through the caste system that places the main character, Bakha, as an "untouchable." Marginalization is seen in the restrictions on Bakha's access to education, work, health services, and places of worship. Hegemony is formed through the dominance of ideology and cultural institutions that make injustice accepted as normal, even by those who are oppressed. This study shows that Untouchable not only depicts social inequality, but also makes readers aware of how ideology works to maintain an unequal power structure. Through this study, readers are expected to be more critical of social injustice that is hidden in culture and social systems.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

MUSE

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Muse: Journal of Art is an information platform that contains scientific research articles, literature studies, ideas, theory applications, critical analysis studies, and other research in the field of English Literature. Muse: Journal of Art is published twice a year, July and January, published by ...