The Representation of Women in the Novel Cinta di Dalam Gelas by Andrea Hirata: A Liberal Feminist Study

Abstract

This research is motivated by the importance of literature education that goes beyond mere appreciation of the work itself; it should also foster students' awareness of various social issues, including gender equality. The novel Cinta di Dalam Gelas by Andrea Hirata was selected because it depicts various forms of gender injustice and the struggles of women to achieve equality. This study aims to describe the forms of gender injustice and the nature of women's struggles from a liberal feminist perspective. A qualitative approach utilizing descriptive analysis was employed. The primary data source is the novel Cinta di Dalam Gelas by Andrea Hirata, with data collected through reading and note-taking techniques. Data analysis involved the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that the forms of gender injustice present in the novel include marginalization, subordination, stereotyping, and patriarchy. Meanwhile, women's struggles are represented through efforts regarding education, economic freedom, public participation, equal civil rights, and resistance against patriarchy. The character Maryamah (Enong) is portrayed as a woman striving for equal opportunities and rights through education, economic independence, and involvement in the public sphere—an arena traditionally dominated by men. The research findings were subsequently developed into a gender-sensitive teaching module for review texts, designed in accordance with the Kurikulum Merdeka (Independent Curriculum) and incorporating a growth mindset approach and the Problem-Based Learning model. Thus, the novel Cinta di Dalam Gelas serves as a representation of various forms of gender injustice while simultaneously illustrating women's struggles to attain equality.