Resistance narratives in Laut Bercerita and The Long Walk through the lens of hidden transcript theory

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Published: Nov 28, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33153/glr.v23i2.7748
Keywords:
Hidden transcript, Resistance, Symbols, Discourses, Gestures

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Karkono Karkono
Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Jawa Timur
Natanael Ricky Putra
Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Jawa Timur
Azizatuz Zahro'
Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Jawa Timur

Abstract

This study investigates how hidden transcripts function as covert resistance in Laut Bercerita by Leila S. Chudori and The Long Walk by Stephen King. The research specifically aims to (1) identify and classify symbolic resistance (indirect signs of refusal), discouses resistance (subtle counter-narratives), and gestures resistance (defiance body signal), and (2) compare how these forms emerge under Indonesia’s New Order and King’s dystopian authoritarian system. Using James C. Scott’s resistance theory, the study applies qualitative close reading, thematic coding of resistance expressions, and cross-textual comparison. Finding show that both novels construct hidden transcripts to critique state domination through layered symbolic and narrative strategies. However, Laut Bercerita foregrounds communal memory and coded mourning rituals, while The Long Walk emphasizes individual bodily endurance as muted protest. These variations indicate that covert resistance is shaped by political repression and cultural frames of suffering. The study contributes to resistance literature by demonstrating how fictional texts extend Scott’s theory and highlighting the value of comparative literature in revealing oppressive structures. The novelty of this study lies in its cross-regime comparative approach, which integrates Scott’s resistance framework with hidden transcript analysis to uncover previously unexamined patterns of covert dissent in two politically and culturally distinct novels.

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Vol. 23 No. 2 (2025)
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Author Biographies

Natanael Ricky Putra, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Jawa Timur

Post-graduate students at State University of Malang

Azizatuz Zahro', Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Jawa Timur

Lecturer at State University of Malang

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