The Emergence of “I”

49

CHAPTER V CONCLUSIONS, IMPLICATIONS, AND SUGGESTIONS

This chapter consists of three parts. The first part is conclusions, which presents the conclusions of the analysis and the answers of the formulated problem. The second part is the implication to education. The third part relates to the suggestion for future research on Paulo Coelho’s Veronika Decides to Die.

5.1. Conclusions

This study deals with three problems. The first problem is about the personality of the main character. By using the theory of character, Veronika is classified as a round character. By using the theory of characterization, Veronika is described as a perfectionist, passive, introvert, low self esteem, mature, brave, pretty, and attractive. Veronika’s dominant characteristic is introvert because she decides to make no emotional contact with other people. The second problem deals with the descriptions of the mental asylum. By using historical background, the description of the mental asylum is acquired. The mental asylum serves as a refuge not only for criminals and insane people, but also for the sane who look for an escape from their responsibilities in the outside world. The mental asylum provides freedom to its patients to become whatever they want to be. The mental asylum also provides entertainment tables, chairs, sofas, a piano, a television, and large windows through which the gray sky and the low clouds can be seen to maintain the mood of its patients. By using the theory 50 of characteristics, the personality of the inhabitants who affect Veronika’s growth is acquired. Dr. Igor is a logical person. He is trying to find the cure to desperation and to safe many souls. Dr. Igor uses Veronika as his guinea pig by telling her that she only has a few days to live. Thus, Dr. Igor makes Veronika aware of her reason in commiting suicide. Zedka is an indifferent woman who is aware of her insanity. Through her indifference, Zedka invites Veronika to be more open, especially to open herself for a relationship with friends. Mari is a good mother with many qualities except the courage to chase her dreams. Mari cares Veronika as a friend and daughter. Mari’s affection makes Veronika able to trust a friend. Thus, Veronika is willing to join a meditation session led by Nasrudin. Nasrudin is a sufi master who lives within the mental asylum. Nasrudin’s meditation session leads Veronika to an awareness of her hatred, love, fear, curiosity, and a desire to live. Thus, Veronika becomes more aware of her true nature. Eduard is a brave and an educated man from wealthy family. Eduard’s interest in music grants Veronika an opportunity to realize her dream as a pianist. Furthermore, it is Eduard to whom Veronika is able to free her desire to a man of trust and love. Third problem deals with the significance of living in the mental asylum to Veronika’s growth that leads to Self-realization. By using the theory of psychosynthesis, Veronika’s old personality of being a perfectionist and introvert is deconstructed. The mental asylum not only provides freedom, but also friends with empathic love to Veronika. As Veronika’s relationship intensifies, she opens her soul to past memories that have been repressed. Thus,