Representations of Resilience in Novels by Minangkabau Authors: A Comparative Analysis

  • Alexander Stark Stark Center for Advanced Studies in the Humanities and Social Sciences, Friedrich-Alexander-University, Erlangen, Germany.
  • Balazs Huszka Language Centre, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam.
Keywords: Hamka, Resilience, Sengsara Membawa Nikmat, Terusir, Tulis Sutan Sati

Abstract

Resilience is a topic that is of growing importance. It is a science that analyzes the way on how to manage stressful and challenging situations. In this article, the researchers look at two famous Indonesian novels, namely Sengsara Membawa Nikmat (Sufferings leads to blessing) and Terusir (Expelled). In both novels, the two main protagonists face major challenges that affect their well-being. They have to be resilient to avoid being overwhelmed by the situation. A structuralist approach was used to analyze the patterns of resilience. It was detected that the two major protagonists use different strategies to cope with difficult situations. One reason was the gender-specific backgrounds of the major figures. This research also argues that novels can contribute to the field of resilience studies by providing vivid examples. Further research on the reading experience could offer additional insights.

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Published
2026-04-23
Section
Articles