Representasi Praktik Penindasan dan Bentuk Perlawanan dalam Novel Laut Bercerita Perspektif Poskolonial Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the representations of oppression and resistance in Leila S. Chudori’s novel Laut Bercerita using Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak’s postcolonial perspective. This study was conducted because previous analyses of Laut Bercerita have primarily focused on forms of violence or the characters’ struggles, whereas the relationship between practices of oppression and forms of resistance among subaltern groups has not yet been specifically examined through Spivak’s subaltern perspective.  This study employs a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach. Research data were obtained from the novel’s narratives, dialogues, monologues, and events through close reading, intensive analysis, note-taking, and data classification. The analysis was based on Spivak’s concept of the subaltern in postcolonial studies, identifying forms of oppression that limit the subaltern characters’ space to speak, as well as forms of resistance that demonstrate efforts to challenge the dominance of power.  The results of the study indicate that oppression is represented through verbal and physical violence perpetrated by those in power against the activists. Verbal violence manifests through threats, intimidation, and accusations against the activists, while physical violence is evident through abductions, torture, beatings, and even forced disappearances. On the other hand, subaltern figures engage in resistance that takes two forms: collective resistance and symbolic resistance. Collective resistance is demonstrated through the solidarity of activists in fighting injustice. Symbolic resistance, on the other hand, is not carried out directly through physical struggle but rather through signs, symbols, or specific media that signify a rejection of power.