REPRESENTASI EKSPLOITASI ALAM DALAM NOVEL JEJAK BALAK KARYA AYU WELIRANG: ANALISIS EKOKRITIK GREG GARRARD

Abstract

This study aims to describe the representation of natural resource exploitation in the novel Jejak Balak by Ayu Welirang using Greg Garrard's ecocritical perspective, covering the forms of representation, the human–nature relationship, and the ecological criticism conveyed through narrative elements. The study employs a descriptive qualitative design with a library research approach. The primary data source is the novel Jejak Balak, while the secondary sources are relevant books and journals. Data were collected through reading, note-taking, and documentation, analyzed with the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, and validated through source, theory, and method triangulation. The findings reveal six representations: wilderness, animals, earth, apocalypse, pollution, and dwelling. The human–nature relationship is reciprocal and takes three forms: nature as a living space, humans as agents of exploitation, and nature as the bearer of consequences. Ecological criticism is conveyed through characters, conflicts, settings, plot, and dialogue and narration. The novel represents natural resource exploitation as a social, cultural, and humanitarian issue, and emphasizes the importance of a harmonious relationship between humans and nature for the sustainability of life.