Characters’ Personality Analysis on “A Grave in Gaza” by Matt Beynon Rees

Abstract

This study aims to describe the personality and existence of every character in the novel “A Grave in Gaza”. The research is called qualitative approach. This research is based on psychological approach to analyze characters’ personality and philosophy of existentialism to analyze characters’ personality through their personal existence because the psychological approach is able to deconstruct and elaborate the traits of characters whereas philosophy of existentialism works for identifying the existence of every character in the novel “A Grave in Gaza”. Finally, the research result states that the characters of this novel are heterogeneous. They have the particular characteristics in acting and interacting each other. Omar Yussef Sirhan and Magnus Wallender as the main characters can be called the ones who are independent, responsible and kind. They do the best what should to do, whereas Eyad Masharawi, Adnan Maki, Husseini and Al Fara as minor characters also have different characteristics. Maki is very critical but Maki is arrogant because of his power. Husseini is categorized as the one who wants to be honored very much but Al Fara is the idealist person. Therefore, what the novel wants to deliver is that becoming men should be able to show the humbleness and politeness. Lives must be based on the social norms so that men can be on the right manner. Giving good contribution for the public interest is one of life destination as the good deed.

Keywords: Character, Psychology of Personality, and Existentialism