IMPACT OF THE PROTAGONIST'S DEPRESSION IN JAY ASHER’S NOVEL THIRTEEN REASONS WHY

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study deals with the analysis of the depression in Jay Asher's novel Thirteen Reasons Why focusing on the protagonist, Hannah Baker. The aims of this study are to identify the type of depression experienced by the protagonist, and to explain the impacts of the depression as depicted in the novel. This study analyzed data by using a qualitative descriptive approach that aims to describe and interpret the subject matter. This study reveals that the depression experienced by the protagonist is included in the category of severe depression characterized by the symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions. In addition, some impacts of the depression were found, including self blame, inferiority, and frequent thinking about death. The protagonist blames herself for negative events that affect her life and others. Additionally, she feels inferior due to bullying, betrayal, rape, and traumatic experiences that tarnishes her reputation. It leads her to believe that death is a way out of the depression she is experiencing. This study contributes valuable insights to understand the depiction of mental health in the literary work specifically on depression, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing severe depression and its impacts. Keywords: Depression, impact, inferiority, severe depression, self-blame