Wanastra: Jurnal Bahasa dan Sastra
Vol. 18 No. 2 (2026): September

Power Reconfiguration and Racial Politics in J.M. Coetzee's Disgrace:  David Lurie as a Representation of Post-Apartheid Transformation

Delis Meta Tiana (Unknown)
Alloh, Akram Khaled Odah (Unknown)
Aprillia, Aprillia (Unknown)
Alawiyah, Sufi (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Sep 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the reconfiguration of power and racial politics in post-apartheid South Africa through the character of David Lurie in J.M. Coetzee's Disgrace. This study uses a qualitative literary analysis, with Disgrace as the primary data source and relevant books and journal articles as secondary sources. The research data consists of narrative excerpts, conversations, actions, and interactions among characters related to power and racial politics. Data selection was based on its relevance to the research focus. The analysis involved in-depth reading and classification of the data, character analysis using Abrams’ approach, postcolonial interpretation based on Fanon’s theory, and an examination of power relations using Foucault’s framework. The findings reveal that David Lurie is portrayed as a dynamic character whose development reflects broader social and political transformations in post-apartheid South Africa. Through his attitudes, actions, and interactions with other characters, Lurie demonstrates the persistence of colonial mentality and racial hierarchy despite the formal end of apartheid. The findings further indicate that the novel portrays a reconfiguration of power rather than merely a reversal of racial dominance, particularly through the changing relationships among Lurie, Lucy, and Petrus. From a literary perspective, these findings suggest that Lurie's transformation may reflect the gradual erosion of colonial privilege, the emergence of new power configurations, and the ongoing negotiation of identity within a society still shaped by the legacies of colonialism and apartheid.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

wanastra

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

Wanastra: Jurnal Bahasa dan Sastra appreciates and supports researchers in English studies as part of its commitment to disseminating scientific knowledge and community service. The journal provides free access to all published articles for national and international audiences. The editorial board ...