CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
The literary work reflects of the depiction of society, real life or social
condition. In this case the idea that is analyzed is depression. In social life, depression
is existed (Xiang, 2022). Depression is a neurosis with decreased emotionality, slowed
thinking, and impaired speech and movement. People who experience depression,
their lives and work are thrown into disarray and intervention, which is a significant
burden on them, their families and society. We as human beings sometimes feel
depressed of something in our life or at least we run short of hope. Depression may
cause someone to feel hopeless and try to do anything, Regardless of the danger.
Depression is a serious disorder that has a negative impact on a person's
feelings, thoughts and actions. A person with depression may have decreased interest
and pleasure in daily activities, significant weight loss or gain, insomnia or
oversleeping, a lack of energy, an inability to concentrate, feelings of worthlessness or
excessive guilt. Røseth's theories (2015) on depression and empirical findings support
this: Compared with people who are not depressed, people who are depressed show
lower reactions to various positive emotional stimulants, reduced activity of the
appetite system, moodiness.
Researchers think that all, everyone has serious problems. Serious problems
can cause depression, as noted by Azzahra Putri Hidayat et al (2022). Depression is a
condition
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that affects a person's behavior, affective, physiological and cognitive, causing loss of
loved ones, uncertainty and boredom in life. It is excessively sad feeling until it may
makes someone think that his life is meaningless. Depression is usually thought of
being a disorder or disturbance in mood. Everyone, at various times in life, feels sad
or blue. Sadness or grief is a normal response to death, loss, separation or difficult life
events. Depressed people are potentially capable of doing very well on tests of memory
abstract thought, but their perceptions about the world and their reactions are askew.
The novel Purple Hearts, was written by Tess Wakefield. Tess Wakefield
works in Golden Valley, Minnesota as a copywriter, an amateur comedian, and a
caretaker for several thriving plants. Purple Hearts is her first novel for adults. Purple
Hearts released in April 25, 2017. This novel has been filmed with the same title in
the United States in July 29, 2022. It gives us insight of life meaning in unique way. It
answers question about what kind of life you want and people struggle for ideal life
condition. The protagonist in the novel is Cassie Salazar. However, this analysis
centers on the psychological state of the protagonist, particularly her experience with
depression. The protagonist exhibits symptoms of depression, which can be attributed
to various causes that will be the focus of this analysis.
Depressed people may feel sad, anxious, empty, hopeless, worried, helpless,
worthless, guilty, irritable, hurt, or restless. They may lose interest in activities that
experience loss of appetite or overeating, have problems to concentrate, remembering
details, or making decisions. In severe cases, they may contemplate or attempt suicide.
Additionally, they might suffer from insomnia, excessive sleeping, fatigue, loss of
energy, or persistent aches, pains, or digestive issues that do not respond to treatment.
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This topic is chosen because depression is a problem which is commonly faced
by people nowadays, and even it can be more serious if it is not be overcome correctly.
Depression is a normal reaction to a fairly severe event in life. Someone who is
depressed can commit suicide. By learning the novel Purple Heartby Tess Wakefield,
we can get not only entertainment but also insight about causes and symptoms of
depression.
1.2 Statement of the Study
Based on the background above, there are three problems that will be explored
in this study. They are as follows:
1. What are the causes of depression experienced by the protagonist in the
novel?
2. What are the symptoms of protagonist's depression in the novel?
3. How do the causes and symptoms affect the protagonist?
1.3 Objective of the Study
Based on the problem above, there are three objectives to achieve in this study.
They are as follows:
1. To analyze the causes of protagonist’s depression in the novel.
2. To clarifythe symptoms protagonist’s depression in the novel.
3. Describe the causes and symptoms that affect the protagonist
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1.4 Scope of the Study
This study focuses on analyzing the causes and symptoms of depression
experienced by the protagonist in the novel Purple Love by Tess Wakefield. It will
explore both internal and external factors contributing to the protagonist's depressive
state, such as past traumas, interpersonal relationships, and significant life events. In
addition, this study is centered around the hypothesis that the protagonist's depression
is primarily caused by biogenetic and social environmental, family factors, and
difficult life changes. Additionally, this study will identify and analyze the various
symptoms exhibited by the protagonist, including emotional, physical, cognitive, and
behavioral manifestations of depression. Key symptoms highlighted in this analysis
include loss of interest and enjoyment in activities, loss of energy, and withdrawal
from social activities.
1.5 Significance of the Study
This thesis is intended to be helpful to understand more about the novel, The
Purple Heart by Tess Wakefield. Having read this thesis, the readers would be
expected to find out the depression experienced by the protagonist in the novel. It is
hoped that this analysis would be useful to readers to enlarge their knowledge about
depression, especially for literature students who have an interest in this analysis.
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CHAPTER II
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 The Protagonist
The protagonist plays an important role in a story, serving as the central figure
who drives the narrative forward. As Hinterwimmer (2017) highlights, various
elements and characters are introduced throughout the text, but the protagonist stands
out as the main focus. Sudjiman (1988), also emphasized that characterization often
involves choosing and naming characters deliberately, but it is the protagonist who
often embodies the main idea of the story. In addition, Baldick (2001) emphasized the
omnipresence and dominance of the protagonist in each event, underlining the
significance of the protagonist in shaping the storyline. Additionally, the protagonist's
goals and character determine the overall direction of the plot, guiding the reader's
journey through the narrative. Thus, the protagonist serves as an important conduit in
the story telling, shaping the reader's engagement and understanding of the narrative.
2.2 Depression
Depression, often classified as a mood disorder, extends beyond fleeting
emotions to encompass a prolonged emotional state that significantly influences an
individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors (Ferguson, 2021). It manifests as
feelings of helplessness and despair, coupled with a pervasive sense of sadness and
disinterest in previously enjoyable activities, as articulated by Nolen-Hoeksema and
Hilt (2008). Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes
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depression as a prevalent mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings
of sadness and a notable lack of pleasure in once enjoyable experiences.
Psychologists, represented by Beck and Alford (2009), provide further insights
into depression, delineating it as a psychological disorder characterized by disruptions
in an individual's feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. These disruptions can manifest as
feelings of sadness, loneliness, and a diminished sense of self-worth, often
accompanied by withdrawal from social interactions and everyday activities.
Similarly, Hidayat et al. (2022) offers a nuanced perspective, describing depression as
an unpleasant emotional state marked by subjective feelings of tension, fear, and
worry. Additionally, it highlights the activation of the central nervous system as a
notable component of depression, underscoring the complex interplay between
emotional and physiological factors.
In essence, depression presents a multifaceted challenge that profoundly
impacts various aspects of an individual's life, extending beyond mere mood
fluctuations to encompass disruptions in cognitive, emotional, and behavioral
functioning.
2.2.1 The Causes of Depression
According to Nikbakhtzadeh (2020), anxiety and depression are one of the
causes that affect the quality of our life and daily tasks. There are people who
experience depression only once in their life. There are also those who experience it
repeatedly or what is known as major depression which can lead to suicide. It is
important to know that there are many things that can be done to help people who have
an urgency to take this action, one of which is by understanding the factors that can
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cause depression. Santrock (2003) delineates several key factors contributing to
depression:
[Link] Biogenetic and Social Environmental Factors
Biogenetic and social environmental factors play a significant role in the
development of depression. Genetic factors within the family can increase an
individual's vulnerability to depression. However, it is not only genetic factors that
play a role. Social environment also plays a major role. For example, stress caused by
problems in the family, work, or interpersonal relationships can trigger depression or
exacerbate existing conditions. Thus, depression often results from the complex
interaction between genetic and environmental factors.
[Link] Cognitive Schemas in Childhood
Traumatic or stressful experiences during childhood can shape negative
cognitive schemas in individuals, which can then increase the risk of depression in
adulthood. For example, children who experience frequent harsh treatment or neglect
may develop negative self-perceptions and feelings of worthlessness that persist into
adulthood. Such thought patterns can make individuals more vulnerable to depression
when facing pressure or stress later in life.
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[Link] Learned Helplessness
Learned Helplessness is a concept that suggests when someone feels they have
no control over their circumstances, they are more likely to experience feelings of
despair and vulnerability to depression. For instance, if someone experiences repeated
failures in life and feels they cannot change their situation, they may feel trapped in a
cycle of hopelessness that can lead to depression.
[Link] The family
The family environment can also influence the development of depression. A
family history of depression, such as having parents who suffer from depression, can
increase the risk of depression in offspring. Family conflicts, divorce, or economic
problems can also trigger depression. Instability in the family environment can create
feelings of insecurity and instability, which can increase the risk of depression in those
involved.
[Link] Limited Social Relationships
Lack of social support and positive relationships with peers or friends can also
worsen depression. Positive social interactions can provide emotional and
psychological support needed to cope with stress and life pressures. When someone
feels isolated or unsupported by their social environment, they are more vulnerable to
depression.
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[Link] Difficult Life Changes
Difficult Life Change, such as parental divorce or school transitions, can cause
significant stress in individuals. Major changes in one's routine or living environment
can trigger feelings of uncertainty and anxiety that can lead to depression. This is
especially true for teenagers experiencing important transitions in their lives.
By understanding these factors, it is hoped that individuals and society can
identify the symptoms of depression early and provide appropriate support to those in
need.
2.2.2 Symptoms of Depression
According to Sulistiyana (2019), depression is a complex mental disorder and
involves a variety of different symptoms, which can affect various aspects of a person's
life, some of which are:
[Link] Loss of interest and enjoyment in activities
people who are depressed often lose interest and enjoyment in activities they
previously enjoyed. Everything that used to be enjoyable, such as hobbies, work, or
social relationships, suddenly feels bland and meaningless. They may feel uninspired
to do anything and tend to withdraw from activities they usually enjoy.
[Link] Pessimism
Symptoms of depression are often also characterized by a pessimistic attitude
and negative interpretation of everything in life. People who are depressed tend to see
everything from a negative perspective, feel that nothing will work out, and see no
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hope in any situation. They may feel that failure is certain and that there is no point in
trying.
[Link] Loss of energy
Depression often causes excessive fatigue and a constant feeling of exhaustion.
People who are depressed may feel tired all the time, even after getting enough rest.
They also tend to lose enthusiasm for daily activities and feel like they don't have the
energy to do anything.
[Link] Withdrawal from social activities
People who experience depression tend to withdraw from social interactions
and avoid situations that require interaction with other people. They may not respond
to phone calls, avoid meeting friends, or isolate themselves at home. This can be
caused by feelings of low self-esteem, social anxiety, or an inability to enjoy social
interactions.
[Link] Memory difficulties
Depression can also affect a person's cognitive function, including the ability to
remember information and concentrate. People who are depressed often have difficulty
remembering things or making decisions, and may feel confused or mentally disturbed.
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[Link] Changes in sleep patterns
Sleep disturbance is one of the common symptoms of depression. Some people
may experience difficulty sleeping or insomnia, while others may feel very sleepy and
want to sleep constantly. These changes in sleep patterns can cause further fatigue and
worsen depressive symptoms.
[Link] Thoughts about death
Thoughts about death or suicide are one of the most serious and worrying
symptoms of depression. People who are depressed may feel hopeless and hopeless
about the future, so they may think about or even plan to take actions that harm
themselves.
In conclusion, the symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, but
generally include prolonged feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in daily
activities, excessive tiredness, changes in sleep patterns, withdrawal from social
interactions, and thoughts of death or death. suicide. It's important to recognize these
symptoms and seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing depression.
2.2.3 The Causes and Symptomps Affect
There are several studies that have examined how causal factors such as past
trauma, social environment, and internal conflict affect the protagonist in the story.
According to Smith (2016), past trauma often shapes the protagonist's motivations and
actions. For example, in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Scout Finch's childhood
trauma influences her views on justice and morality (Pitz, 2018).
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Additionally, in the novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, causes such as the
oppression and injustice that Jane experienced in her childhood influenced
hercharacter development (Jacobs, 2002). Bronte describes how Jane grows into a
strong and independent woman in response to this traumatic experience.
Symptoms that arise as a result of these causes, such as stress, depression, and
defensive behavior, also play an important role in the development of the story.
According to Goldstain (2019), these psychological symptoms are often visible in the
protagonist's actions and dialogue, giving readers deep insight into their emotional
state. In the novel The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath, Esther Greenwood's symptoms of
depression affect every aspect of her life, from personal relationships to career
decisions. Plath uses these symptoms to create an immersive narrative about mental
struggle and the search for identity.
In this case, to analyze how these causes and symptoms affect the protagonist,
the appropriate theory to use is Behavioral Psychology Theory by Skinner in the book
entitled Science and human behavior (1965). This theory explains how past trauma,
the social environment and internal conflicts influence individual behavior which is
explained further below:
[Link].1 Past Trauma
Skinner (1965) stated that human behavior is greatly influenced by the
reinforcement and punishment received during his life. In this context, how the impacts
and symptoms affect the main character can be described by analyzing the
protagonist's traumatic experience.
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[Link].2 Social Environment
The environment also plays an important role in shaping the protagonist's
behavior. According to Skinner's environmental theory, individuals are influenced by
external conditions around them, including social, cultural and economic interactions.
For example, a protagonist who grows up in an environment filled with violence and
instability may develop symptoms such as high anxiety, hypervigilance, and defensive
behavior. On the other hand, a supportive and positive environment can encourage the
development of healthier and more resilient characters. The literature shows that the
social environment can strengthen or reduce the impact of past experiences, depending
on whether the environment provides positive or negative reinforcement (Bandura,
1977).
[Link].3 Internal Conflict
Internal Conflict is also an important factor in behavioral psychology theory.
This conflict often arises from a mismatch between personal values and life
experiences. For example, a protagonist who has experienced past trauma may
experience an internal conflict between the desire to forget a bad experience and the
need to face it. This conflict can manifest itself in the form of psychological symptoms
such as stress, anxiety and depression. According to Freud (2015), internal conflict is
often not realized by individuals, but can significantly influence their behavior and
decisions. In the narrative, the protagonist's internal conflict can be depicted through
internal monologue, dialogue, and actions that reflect their inner struggle.
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