Jurnal Pembelajaran Bahasa dan Sastra
Vol. 5 No. 4 (2026): Juli 2026

The Inner Conflict of the Main Character in the Novel Rara Mendut by Y.B. Mangunwijaya: Kurt Lewin's Literary Psychology.

Herson Kadir (Unknown)
Dian Vidiawati Ibrahim (Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia)
Kartika Dwi Yanti (Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia)
Natasya Cut Fadilah Salfa Djua (Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia)
Fani Septiani Rauf (Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia)
Ismit Badaru (Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia)
Sri Wahyuni K. Rahim (Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study aims to describe the internal conflicts of the main character in the novel Rara Mendut by Y.B. Mangunwijaya using Kurt Lewin's psychological approach to literature. The focus of this research includes approach-approach conflict, approach-avoidance conflict, and avoidance-avoidance conflict. The method used is descriptive qualitative. The research data consists of textual excerpts from the novel that indicate the main character's internal conflicts. Data collection techniques are carried out through reading and note-taking, while data analysis is conducted by classifying and describing the data based on Kurt Lewin's theory. The results of the study show that Rara Mendut experiences various internal conflicts due to the clash between love, power, freedom, and self-esteem. Approach-approach conflict is seen when the character is faced with two choices that are equally advantageous. Approach-avoidance conflict arises when the character desires something but also fears its consequences. Meanwhile, avoidance-avoidance conflict occurs when the character must choose between two situations that are equally harmful. This study concludes that the internal conflicts in the novel reflect a woman's struggle to maintain her freedom and self-dignity.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jp

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

Jurnal PEMBAHAS (Pembelajaran Bahasa dan Sastra) [p-ISSN 2809-5367][e-ISSN: 2809-6355] has the aim to develop and disseminate science and technology through scientific articles on the results of research and study of concepts or theories in an effort to enrich the scientific realm in the field of ...