The role of focalization in portraying negative childsm in Anthony Reynolds' novel Ruination

Maulana, Ghalda (2026) The role of focalization in portraying negative childsm in Anthony Reynolds' novel Ruination. Sarjana thesis, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung.

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Abstract

This study examines the forms of focalization and their contribution to representing negative childism in the novel Ruination by Anthony Reynolds. It aims to (1) identify the forms of focalization used in the novel based on Mieke Bal's theory of focalization, and (2) analyze how focalization contributes to the representation of negative childism using Elisabeth Young-Bruehl's theory of childism. This study employs a qualitative descriptive method with a textual analysis approach. The research data consist of narration and dialogue selected from the novel *Ruination* (2022), gathered through close reading, classification, and interpretation based on the theoretical framework applied. The findings show that the novel employs two forms of focalization, namely internal and external focalization. Internal focalization emerges as the most dominant technique, particularly through Kalista's point of view, which allows readers to access her thoughts, feelings, and judgments regarding the events that unfold. External focalization, meanwhile, presents characters through observable actions without disclosing their inner consciousness, thereby creating narrative distance for the reader. The analysis reveals that focalization plays a significant role in representing negative childism, particularly through the portrayal of Viego as an emotionally unstable, inexperienced figure dependent on adult authority. Adult characters consistently regulate Viego's behavior and define his identity, thereby reinforcing an unequal power relation between adults and children. This study concludes that focalization functions not merely as a narrative technique, but also as an ideological device that shapes readers' perceptions of childhood, authority, and autonomy.

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