PROTAGONIST’S LIFE DEPRESSION IN CHO NAM JOO’S NOVEL KIM JI YEONG

Abstract

ABSTRACT This thesis is the result of the analysis on the type of depression experienced by the protagonist in the novel Kim Ji Yeong, born in 1982 by Cho Nam Joo, and the causes of the depression experienced by the protagonist. This study aims to increase awareness of the detrimental impact of societal pressures and gender standards on mental health, as well as provide useful insights for future research and discussions regarding mental health issues. The theory used in this research is Bhowmik et al. (2012) depression theory. The research method used is a qualitative descriptive method, which aims to find the type of depression and the causes of depression experienced. This novel tells the story of a woman named Kim Ji Yeong who experiences depression caused by pressure from the closest people and the social environment. This novel also illustrates gender inequality and social pressures that impact women's mental health. Based on the research, the researcher found two things. First, the types of depression experienced by the protagonist are baby blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis. Second, the data found from this research is the cause of the depression experienced by the protagonist. The causes are sleep problems, stressful life events, and loss of a job. Keywords: Depression, protagonist, gender, novel, postpartum depression