Exploring the Forbidden Forest Haze: An Ecocritical Analysis of Environmental Themes in the Short Story “Tragedi Asap”

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to explore the phenomenon of the forbidden forest haze in the short story Tragedi Asap by Gigih Suroso.   Method: This study uses a qualitative method. Data are presented descriptively by using Greg Garrard's ecocritical approach. The research data is in the form of words, phrases, clauses, and sentences in short stories. The data source is from the short story Tragedi Asap which was published by Analisa Newspaper. Data analysis using software Nvivo 12 and reseacher was carried out using interactive and interpretive model analysis techniques consisting of data condensation, data presentation, and concluding/verification.   Result and Conclusion: The findings research, there are six aspects presented in the short story, namely pollution, wilderness, apocalypse, dwelling, animals, and earth. Environmental education found is protecting nature, disaster mitigation, and preserving nature as a mandate from God. This short story also features an arcadia construction in the form of a prohibition on the transfer of forest land because it is considered holy and sacred.   Implication of the research: The study contributes to public policy by providing an ecocritical analysis of the environmental themes within the short story 'Tragedi Asap'. It sheds light on the portrayal of the natural environment and its ecological implications, offering a nuanced understanding of how literature intersects with environmental issues. This research adds to the broader discourse on environmental literature and its socio-political implications.   Originality/value: The research novelty lies in the application of ecocritical analysis to the specific cultural and environmental context depicted in the short story 'Tragedi Asap', offering a unique perspective on the intersection of literature, society, and ecological concerns in a particular cultural setting.