The Functions Of Derivational Suffixes Found In The “Moby-Dick” Novel By Herman Melville

Abstract

This research collaborates with the examination of derivational suffixes, which play a crucial role in language development. These suffixes bring about changes in word meanings and grammatical structures, ultimately improving vocabulary and communication skills, a significant advantage for students. The data were gathered from a novel named “Moby-Dick,” consist of 786 pages, and 135 Chapters. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach for its analysis. The theories are from Katamba (1993) and Carstairs-McCarthy (2002). The data collection techniques encompassed reading the novel; identifying and underlining words with potential suffixes; and marked words are categorized in the last step of data collection. The study's outcome revolved around the examination of the functional aspects of derivational suffixes, specifically delving into both class-maintaining and class-changing derivational suffixes. The total dataset comprised were 170. The class changing of derivational suffixes in The Moby-Dick novel was adverb derived from adjective (75), adjective derived from noun (52), verb derived from noun (1), noun derived from verb (40). It could be concluded that the highest frequency of data was adjectives that get the highest percentage, namely 75 words. The class maintaining of derivational suffixes in The Moby-Dick novel was nouns derived from nouns (2) there was no data found in the novel about adjective derived from adjective. This research’s implications lie in deepening literary analysis by revealing how derivational suffixes enrich the interpretation of "Moby-Dick," enhancing character development, symbolism, and linguistic nuances within the text.