What Makes “The Phantom” a Phantom? : Characterizations of The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera through Literary and Criminological Perspectives
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14456/jlapsu.2022.15Keywords:
characterization, criminology, causes of crime, The Phantom of the OperaAbstract
This research aims to study the characterizations ofThe Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera written by Gaston Leroux through literary and criminological perspectives. The elements are explored in terms of types, naming, traits, and presentation techniques, while factors in the etiology of the character’s criminal behavior are analyzed by applying integrated criminological theories. The study discusses the characterization of The Phantom in the narrative and factors that influence the creation of this character as a phantom, a frightening criminal. The findings are presented in tables and descriptive explanations. The results show that The Phantom is a round and dynamic character taking the role of a villain and a protagonist. Each aspect of characterization, including naming, and external and internal traits of the character presented through narrations, dialogues, and actions, altogether play a part in characterizing The Phantom. In addition, the character had criminal behaviors such as intimidation, abduction, and murder, motivated by an inferiority complex of not being accepted by society, being labeled, and lack of social bonds.
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