ANALISIS RETORIKA REPRESENTASI FEMINISME DALAM NOVEL KENANGA KARYA OKA RUSMINI

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the representation of feminism and the forms of persuasive rhetoric used in the novel Kenanga by Oka Rusmini. The novel addresses gender issues within the patriarchal cultural context of Bali, particularly the caste system that places women in a subordinate position. This research uses a qualitative method with a feminist literary criticism approach and the rhetoric of persuasion theory by Sonja Foss and Karen Foss. The main focus of the study is to identify the feminist currents represented in the novel and analyze the forms of rhetoric used to convey messages of gender equality. The results of the study show that radical feminism is the most prominent current in this novel, marked by the main character's resistance to the dominance of cultural norms and social rules that oppress women. Kenanga's struggle represents a form of women's resistance to the established patriarchal system. In its delivery, the most dominant persuasive rhetoric is conversion rhetoric, which gradually guides the reader to change their views on the roles and positions of women in society. This rhetoric is used subtly yet effectively to raise awareness and empathy for gender inequality issues. This study shows that Kenanga is not merely a work of literature, but also a medium of social critique and ideological persuasion against ongoing gender injustice. Therefore, this work is relevant as an interdisciplinary study in the fields of literature, gender, and communication.