Didaktik : Jurnal Ilmiah PGSD STKIP Subang
Vol. 12 No. 03 (2026): Volume 12 No. 3, September 2026 Public

AN ANALYSIS OF SYMBOLISM IN DIAMONDS AND TOADS DRAMA SCRIPT AND ITS FUNCTION IN BUILDING MORAL VALUES

Devi Triana (University of HKBP Nomensen Pematangsiantar)
Mutiara Angelica Sinaga (University of HKBP Nomensen Pematangsiantar)
Yena Jorena Sembiring (University of HKBP Nomensen Pematangsiantar)
Yolanda Jesica Sitanggang (University of HKBP Nomensen Pematangsiantar)
Tessaria Simorangkir (University of HKBP Nomensen Pematangsiantar)
Nessa Lumbantobing (University of HKBP Nomensen Pematangsiantar)
David Togi Hutahaean (University of HKBP Nomensen Pematangsiantar)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study analyzes the symbols in the drama script Diamonds and Toads by Charles Perrault and examines their function in building moral values. A descriptive qualitative method was applied, with data collected from the drama script adapted from Perrault's fairy tale. The analysis was conducted using Miles and Huberman's interactive model (data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing) combined with Roland Barthes' semiotic theory, which distinguishes denotation (literal meaning) and connotation (symbolic meaning). The findings reveal three categories of symbols: object symbols (40.91%), character symbols (31.82%), and place/event symbols (27.27%). Object symbols such as roses, pearls, and diamonds connote goodness and virtue, while vipers and toads connote evil and vice. Character symbols position the younger daughter as a symbol of humility and the elder daughter as a symbol of arrogance. Place symbols such as the fountain represent moral testing, the forest symbolizes exile and protection, and the palace represents reward. The symbols function through binary oppositions such as flowers versus snakes, humility versus pride, service versus selfishness, to convey the central moral message that good deeds produce good results and evil deeds produce evil results. The symbols serve four functions: providing concrete representations of abstract moral concepts, creating emotional resonance, serving as memory aids, and establishing a clear moral structure. This study contributes to literary studies, particularly in semiotics and symbol analysis in drama scripts, and offers practical benefits for educators and students in understanding moral values in literary works.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

didaktik

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

Didaktik : Jurnal Ilmiah PGSD STKIP Subang adalah salah satu jurnal yang dterbitkan oleh STKIP Subang, jurnal ini mempunyai bidang cakupan yaitu Penelitian Pendidikan. Terbit pada bulan Juni dan Desember setiap tahunnya. Didaktik : Jurnal Ilmiah PGSD STKIP Subang melalui proses review oleh dua ...