Emotional Representation of Characters in the Novel After Tunangan by Agnes Jessica: A Literary Psychology Perspective

Abstract

The objective of this research is to reveal and represent the emotions and personality types of the characters in After Tunangan, using a literary psychological approach. Emotions are a crucial element in character development within literary texts, as they influence actions, responses, and the psychological evolution of characters throughout the narrative. This study employs a hermeneutic method, with data collected using reading and note-taking techniques. The findings indicate that the character Tere predominantly experiences negative emotions, such as suppressed guilt, sadness, and anxiety, and is characterized by an introverted personality type. In contrast, the character Opan more frequently expresses positive emotions such as love and joy, and exhibits an extroverted personality type. These emotions emerge in response to both internal and external conflicts, including family pressure, a love quadrangle, and pretense within the engagement relationship. The study concludes that the portrayal of emotions in After Tunangan not only enhances character development but also illustrates internal conflicts and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships. This research is expected to contribute to the advancement of literary studies, particularly in understanding character psychology through an interdisciplinary approach that bridges literature and psychology.