Analysis of the Protagonist's Inner Conflict in the Novel 14 Days Isabella by Caramel: A Literary-Psychological Study

Abstract

This article examines the psychological turmoil experienced by the main character in the novel 14 Days Isabella by Caramel through a literary psychology approach. This study is significant because the novel offers a profound depiction of the psychological pressure faced by an adolescent who grows up without full acceptance from her family, making it relevant to examine through Sigmund Freud’s personality theory, which highlights the interplay among the id, ego, and superego. The research was conducted from February to June 2026 using a descriptive qualitative method grounded in a literary psychology framework. The main data source was the novel text published by Akad Media Cakrawala in 2024, while supporting data were gathered from related books and scholarly articles. Data collection was carried out through intensive reading and note-taking techniques, followed by analysis through the stages of identification, classification, description, interpretation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that Isabella experiences various forms of inner turmoil, including doubt, anxiety, fear, sorrow, and guilt, triggered by unfair treatment from her family, her deteriorating health condition, and a negative self-perception. To cope with these pressures, she employs several strategies, such as praying, motivating herself, restraining her emotions, forgiving others, and striving to rebuild her life more positively. In conclusion, Isabella’s inner conflict stems from a sustained clash between her inner drives and a life reality marked by rejection.