The Behavior Formation of an Isolated Boy in American Rural Society as Depicted in David Wroblewski�s The Story of Edgar Sawtelle
American family has become the most important part of American life since the era of colonies. Family is a part of certain society, thus the family�s way of life becomes the reflection of the society�s lifestyle. Since the family �plays the chief role in molding the character of every individu...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Theses and Dissertations NonPeerReviewed |
| Published: |
[Yogyakarta] : Universitas Gadjah Mada
2013
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://repository.ugm.ac.id/120808/ http://etd.ugm.ac.id/index.php?mod=penelitian_detail&sub=PenelitianDetail&act=view&typ=html&buku_id=60846 |
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| Institution: | Universitas Gadjah Mada |
| Summary: | American family has become the most important part of American life
since the era of colonies. Family is a part of certain society, thus the family�s way
of life becomes the reflection of the society�s lifestyle. Since the family �plays the
chief role in molding the character of every individual in human society� (Barnes
and Ruedi, 1971:641), it is necessary to discuss the shaping of a child�s behavior.
This study uses interdisciplinary approach which involving theory of behaviorism
of B.F. Skinner and also social science. This study will do research on a novel
entitled The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by American author David Wroblewski. The
aim of this study is to analyze the behavior formation of Edgar Sawtelle, as the
main character by first elaborating his characterization which is also believed to
give influence in shaping and reshaping his behavior.
In relation to support the environmental stimulus which is believed
influences the behavior formation, this study uses six methods of characterization,
which are physical description, attitude or appearance, thoughts, reaction of
others, action or incident, and physical setting. The physical condition of Edgar
Sawtelle who is a young boy and mute affects the way he behaves and thinks
about the family incident he is confronted.
The result of this study shows that the formation of the individual�s
behavior is modified by cultural forces. The state of society and nature in the
Midwest of America modify the changing behavior of a boy. The boy who once
was a pure and adorable child changes into a murderer as a result of his way in
confronting his family incident. His behavior also changes from a nice kid into an
expert burglar as the consequence of being forced to survive in the wilderness
without any skills and equipments. |
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