Multidisciplinary Indonesian Center Journal
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): Vol. 3 No. 1 Edisi Januari 2026

AN ANALYSIS OF THE MAIN CHARACTER’S SEARCH FOR IDENTITY IN TERE LIYE’S NOVEL SENDIRI: A JUNG PSYCHOANALYTIC PERSPECTIVE

Feryanti Kurnia Andi (Unknown)
Hari Windu Asrini (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study examines the main character’s search for identity in Tere Liye’s novel Sendiri (2024) through the lens of Carl Gustav Jung’s psychoanalytic theory. The research addresses the lack of in-depth psychological analysis regarding how the protagonist confronts inner conflict, loneliness, and past trauma in the process of identity formation. The study aims to describe the forms, strategies, and obstacles in the character’s identity quest, as well as to analyze the individuation process based on Jungian concepts such as persona, shadow, anima/animus, and the Self. A qualitative descriptive method was employed, utilizing close reading and thematic analysis of textual data from the novel. Findings reveal that the protagonist undergoes a complex, nonlinear psychological journey toward self-understanding, triggered by existential crisis and emotional isolation. Through deep introspection, symbolic interactions (particularly with natural elements like the moon), and confrontation with the shadow, the character gradually integrates fragmented aspects of the self. This study demonstrates that Jungian theory effectively uncovers the psychological depth of characters in contemporary Indonesian literature and affirms the relevance of literary fiction as a medium for reflecting on identity formation and emotional resilience in real life.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

micjo

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Earth & Planetary Sciences Education Other

Description

Multidisciplinary Indonesian Center Journal (MICJO) adalah Jurnal multidisiplin yang membahas dan mengkaji semua disiplin ilmu, seperti: - Humaniora - Ilmu sosial - IPA - Ilmu hukum - Ilmu pendidikan, - Ilmu agama - Ilmu bahasa - Filsafat, - Teknik - Bisnis - Ekonomi - Manajemen - Teknologi ...