Gender Performativity of Characters in 2000s Indonesian Novels

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the gender performativity of lesbian and gay characters in 2000s Indonesian novels. The research is based on Judith Butler's theory of gender performativity with a research design based on a literary sociology approach. Data in the form of quotations are collected by reading and note-taking techniques. The data were analyzed using a hermeneutic model to find out the gender performativity of the characters created by the author. The results showed that the performativity of lesbian and gay characters in the novel included physical and conversation, sexual activity, and homosexual talk. The performance of lesbian and gay figures as a form of gender identity cannot be separated from the coming out process. Lesbian and gay characters will hide their sexual disorders from other characters to maintain their relationship with their environment so that conflicts do not arise. Lesbian and gay characters perform performances as a form of their identity as lesbian and gay. The author created the gender performance of the lesbian and gay characters in the 2000s Indonesian novel to gain self-identity.