Paradigm: Journal of Language and Literary Studies
Vol 9, No 1 (2026): Paradigm: Journal of Language and Literary Studies

THE REPRESENTATION OF UNCLAIMED EXPERIENCE IN MURATA'S EARTHLINGS

Hilwa Izmi Rumatiga (Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang)
Ahmad Ghozi (Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang)



Article Info

Publish Date
17 Jul 2026

Abstract

This article explores the representation of trauma in Sayaka Murata's novel Earthlings through its protagonist, Natsuki, who experiences sexual abuse and domestic violence from childhood. This research aims to analyze how hidden traumatic experiences are represented within Cathy Caruth's framework of Unclaimed Experience. This research uses literary criticism methods to explain the trauma in the novel. The results show that Natsuki's trauma manifests in five main forms: dissociation, emotional numbness, sensory disturbances, unspeakability, and cognitive confusion. These findings indicate that traumatic experiences never fully claimed by consciousness continue to resurface in fragmented and unconscious ways, shaping the protagonist's inner world throughout the narrative.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

paradigm

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Paradigm: Journal of Language and Literary Studies is one of the professional publications of the Faculty of Humanities, UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang (E-ISSN: 2622-8653). The journal presents information and ideas on theories, research, and methods related to linguistics and literature. It ...