FULFILLMENT OF GEORGE’S SELF ACTUALIZATION IN STOWE’S UNCLE TOM’S CABIN.

FULFILLMENT OF GEORGE’S SELF ACTUALIZATION IN STOWE’S
UNCLE TOM’S CABIN
THESIS
Submitted as Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for Gaining
Bachelor Degree in English Department Faculty of Letters and Humanities
State Islamic University of Sunan Ampel Surabaya

By:
May Sharrah
Reg. Number: A83212134

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
FACULTY OF LETTERS AND HUMANITIES
STATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY OF SUNAN AMPEL SURABAYA

2016

ABSTRACT
Sharrah, May 2016 Fulfillment of George’s Actualization in Stowe’s Uncle
Toms’s Cabin. Thesis. English Department, Faculty of Letters and
Humanities, State Islamic University of Sunan Ampel Surabaya.

Advisory : Sufi Ikrima Sa’adah, M.Hum

This study provides the analysis of George fulfillment until he achieves his
self actualization. The researcher uses Maslow’s hierarchy of need theory which
is divided into five clusters of need. Those are: Physiological Needs, Safety
Needs, Love and Belonging Needs, Esteem Need and the last, Self
Actualization. This study uses qualitative descriptive method. The study does
not only contains the analysis of George’s fulfillment to achieve his self
actualization, but also the analysis of George’s characteristic as a self actualizer
and the impact toward George actualization.
The finding of this thesis states that George’s status as an enslaved man
does not hamper his way to fulfill his need and to achieve his self actualization.
The researcher also finds that George self actualization has an impact for himself
and also for the other characters in the novel and from fifteen self actualizer’s
characteristics that have mentioned, there are eight characteristics of self
actualizer which are depicted in George characters.

Keywords: struggle, self-actualization, motivation, need, hierarchy of needs

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INTISARI
Sharrah, May 2016 Fulfillment of George’s Actualization in Stowe’s Uncle
Toms’s Cabin..Thesis. English Department, Faculty of Letters and
Humanities, The State Islamic University of Sunan Ampel
Surabaya.
Advisory : Sufi Ikrima Sa’adah, M.Hum

Analisis ini menyajikan penelitian tentang pemenuhan kebutuhan sampai
akhirnya George dapat mencapai aktualisasi diri. Dalam hal ini peneliti
menggunakan teori hirarki kebutuhan dari Maslow yang dibagi menjadi lima
tingkatan kebutuhan, sebagai berikut : kebutuhan fisiologis. kebutuhan rasa aman,
kebutuhan cinta dan rasa memiliki, kebutuhan akan penghargaan dan yang
terakhir aktualisasi diri. Analisis ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif.
Analis ini juga berisi tentang analisa karakteristik dari George selaku orang yang
teraktualisasi serta akibat yang timbul akibat aktualisasi diri dari karakter George.
Dalam hal ini peneliti menarik kesimpulan bahwa meskipun status George
adalah seorang budak, namun hal itu tidak menghalanginya untuk memenuhi
kebutuhan untuk mencapai aktualisasi dirinya. Penulis dalam hal ini juga
menemukan bahwa aktulisasi diri George memiliki dampak kepada dirinya sendiri

maupun orang lain. Selanjutnya melalui penelitian ini, peneliti menemukan bahwa
dari lima belas karakter orang yang teraktualisasi delapan karakteristik
diantaranya tercermin dalam karakter George.

Kata Kunci : Perjuangan, Aktualisasi Diri, Motivasi, Kebutuhan, Hirarki
Kebutuhan

II

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cover Page ...................................................................................................... I
Declaration Page ............................................................................................ II
Thesis Advisor’s Approval Page ................................................................... III
Thesis Examiner’s Approval Page................................................................ IV
Motto ............................................................................................................... V
Dedication ....................................................................................................... VI
Acknowledgement .......................................................................................... VII
Table of Contents .......................................................................................... X

Abstract .......................................................................................................... XII
Intisari ............................................................................................................. XIII

CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study............................................................................ 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem ........................................................................... 4
1.3 Objective of the Study................................................................................ 4
1.4 Scope and Limitation ................................................................................. 4
1.5 Significance of the Study ........................................................................... 5
1.6 Method of the Study ................................................................................... 5

CHAPTER II: LITERARY REVIEW
2.1 Theoritical Framework ............................................................................... 8
2.1.1 New Criticism ......................................................................................... 8
2.1.1.1 Character and Characterization ............................................................ 9
2.1.2 Abraham Maslow’s Theory of Human Motivation................................. 11
2.1.2.1 Physiological Need............................................................................... 11
2.1.2.2 Safety Need .......................................................................................... 12
2.1.2.3 Love and Belonging Need .................................................................... 12

X

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2.1.2.4 Esteem Need......................................................................................... 13
2.1.2.5 Self Actualization: The Ultimate Goal ................................................. 13
2.2 Review of Related Study............................................................................ 19

CHAPTER III: ANALYSIS
3.1 George’s Struggle to Reach Self Actualization ......................................... 23
3.1.1 George’s Struggle for Physiological Need .............................................. 23
3.1.2 George’s Struggle for Safety Need ......................................................... 27
3.1.3 George’s Struggle for Love and Belonging Need ................................... 34
3.1.4 George’s Struggle for Esteem Need ........................................................ 38
3.1.5 George’s Self Actualization .................................................................... 41
3.1.5.1 More Efficient Perception of Reality ................................................... 44
3.1.5.2 Acceptance of Self, Other, Nature ....................................................... 45
3.1.5.3 Spontaneity, Simplicity, and Naturalness ............................................ 47
3.1.5.4 Problem Centering ............................................................................... 48
3.1.5.5 Autonomy (Independent of Environment) ........................................... 50

3.1.5.6 Continued Freshness of Appreciation .................................................. 51
3.1.5.7 Democratic Character Structure. .......................................................... 52
3.1.5.8 Creativeness ......................................................................................... 54
3.2 The Impact of George’s Self Actualization ............................................... 55
3.2.1 Impact of George’s Self Actualization for Himself ................................ 55
3.2.2 Impact of George’s Self Actualization for Others .................................. 62
CHAPTER IV: CONCLUSION ................................................................... 69
WORKS CITED ............................................................................................. 71
APPENDIX
SYNOPSIS ...................................................................................................... 73
BIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................. 74

XI

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SHARRAH |1

CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION

1.1.

Background of Study
Historian David Brion notes that “in the 320 years from 1500 to 1820

every European immigrant who arrived in the New World (now America) was
matched at least two African slaves” (qtd in Torr 14). In Slavery in America;
Montgomery Slave Trader stated that more than millions of African people were
enslaved. They were kidnapped and shipped across the Atlantic Ocean to the New
World. During the agonizing journey nearly two million slaves starved and died.
Thus, those who endure during the journey have to serve their entire life under the
barbarous inhumanity, oppression and cruelty of their master. An evolving of
racial issue and slavery in America was created a movement to against slavery.
Amending of the abolitionist against slavery triggered civil war in America in
1861. In the South, where the enslavement of black people was widely embraced,
resistance to ending slavery persisted for another century following the passage of
the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865. Today, 150 years after the Emancipation
Proclamation, very little has been done to address the legacy of slavery and its
meaning in contemporary life (1).
Since the issue of African-America slavery became huge toward the reality

an American Slavery was often full of torture, misery and violent of the black
people. Uncle Tom’s Cabin as an anti-slavery novel which was published in 1852
existed as the most influential slavery work in American history. The book’s

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SHARRAH |2

pathos, sensationalism, timeliness made it enormously popular. It indirectly
changes how Americans view slavery and contributes the abolitionist movement
which against the system that threated people as a property. Harriet Beecher
Stowe was a prolific author; none of her successive works could match the
popularity or importance of Uncle Tom's Cabin, which became a powerful tool of
the abolition movement. As well as Jane Austen„s work, Uncle Tom’s Cabin is
also reputed as Magnum Opus to its writer. “There it is. The beginning of her
magnum opus. The books will change not only her life, her country, but the world.
But, of course, she doesn„t know that‖. (Kirikham 5).
Tri Wibowo noted that, Uncle Tom’s Cabin was first published serially in
abolition newspaper The National Era in 1851. It is published two volumes in
book version in 1852 and directly became best seller book in 19th century, not

only in America but also in the other country. It was sold more than one million in
five years in America; antislavery novel had never sold well. Yet it is successfully
influence most of the American people to against the slavery. The book was
translated widely for more than 37 languages and several times dramatized (the
first time, in 1852, without Stowe’s permission). The drama version became
popular in 19’s century until the beginning of 20’s century. At least there were
seven of Uncle Tom’s Cabin Drama, in 1903 (directed by Edwin S Porter), in
1913 (directed by Harry Polard) in 1914 (directed by William Robert Daly), in
1918 (directed by Searley Dawey), in 1927 (directed by Ap. Younger and Harvey
Thew). In 1965 (directed by Geza Von Radvany in jerman version ) and in 1987 (
directed by Stan Lathan. Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896. During her life

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SHARRAH |3

Harriet Beecher Stow was created many great works such as The Key to Uncle
Tom’s Cabin (1853), The Minister’s Wooing (1859), The Pearl of Orr’s Island
(1862), Religious Poems (1867), Old Town Folks (1869), Poganuc People (1878)
(1).

Uncle Tom’s Cabin offered such reflection of violence stories of the slaves
which are truly happened to the slave in that era. This book tells about life of
slaves in Kentucky. George Harris, the minor character in this novel is told as
Eliza’s husband who decides to escape because of master bridle and violence.
George Harris, a brave, intelligent and innovative young slave is disappointed
with his master because of his unjust treatment. During the escape there are many
troubles that are undergone by George as fugitive slave. Thus this novel describes
the struggle of George until he is able to deceive a slave catcher and to derive
their freedom.
Meanwhile, The researcher realizes that as the human being, everyone has
a desire, dream, goal and set to be free. They must fulfill their desires by selfactualizing themselves. George’s manifestation which strives for his freedom and
intensifies his ability is one of the character that uniquely interesting to discuss.
George, an intellectually curious and talented mulatto is the representative of the
one fugitive slave who willingly gets his right and freedom. He consciously
realizes his quality and capability is more than other slaves or even his master.
George depicts the struggles of strong slave’s character who reaches his selfactualization around the cruelties of enslavement in America.

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SHARRAH |4

Relating to the fact above the researcher is interested in studying the novel
to get deeper understanding about self-actualization and the researcher chooses
Abraham Maslow’s Humanistic Psychology approach focusing on the hierarchy
of needs theory that will be used to analyze the struggle of character to reach his
self-actualization.
1.2

Statement of Problem
Based on the background of the study explained above, the researcher is

interested in analyzing the problems which are formulated as follows:
1.

How does George Harris fulfillment to reach his self actualization in
Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin ?

2.

What are the impacts of George’s self-actualization as reflected in
Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin?

1.3

Objective of the Study
Based on the statement of the problem stated above, this study has two

objectives that can be stated as follows:
1) To describe George Harris fulfillment to reach his self actualization in
Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin.
2) To describe the impact of George’s self actualization as reflected in
Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin
1.4

Scope and Limitation
In order to prevent non-relevant problem, the research will be focused on

how the character of George Harris struggle to fulfill his physiological needs,

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SHARRAH |5

safety needs, love or belonging needs, esteem needs, until he reaches his self
actualization based on Maslow’s hierarchy of need.
1.5

Significance of the Study
This study is significant to be conducted due to both the theoretical and

practical functions. Theoretically, the researcher does hope that it enriches the
reader’s development of knowledge in the literary theory that is related to
humanistic psychology field. Therefore, the readers are expected to comprehend
more about it, especially for those who have interest in the study of Maslow’s
hierarchy of need theory. Then practically, this study can give useful contribution
for the readers in understanding the content of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, mainly
concerning about critical analysis using related theory to do approaches. Also, the
writer hopes that this research can be a helpful reference for other researchers who
are interested in conducting further research
1.6

Method of the Study
1.

Research design
To answer the first and second statement of problem, the research

uses library research by using some books and other references like
articles, journals, and websites relate to the subject matter that will be
analyzed. This research also uses descriptive qualitative research methods
by explaining the result of analysis in the form of words and sentences
since the result is not statistic or numeral data. Substantively it employs
words to answer questions (Donald 420).

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SHARRAH |6

2.

Source of Data
There are two sources of data, primary data and secondary one. In

this research, the source of primary data is come from the novel Uncle
Tom’s Cabin that is written by Harriet Beecher Stowe. Whereas the
secondary data is come from some critical works, journals, website and
some books that concern with the novel and explanation about Abraham
Maslow’s theory.
3.

Method of Collecting Data
Since the data becomes the most important aspects in conducting a

research, so it must be collected effectively. Method of data collection is
one of the research methods parts that will explain how the data are
collected to support the research. In collecting data for the research which
based on the qualitative method, the steps of data collection are:
a. Preparing the novel entitled Uncle Tom’s Cabin as the main data.
b. Collecting the data from the novel by reading comprehensively to
get the accurate data.
c. Selecting related references that can support the research data.
4.

Method of Data Analysis
Data analysis according to Patton (103) is the process of arranging the

data sequence to classify in a pattern category and description of the basic
unit. As the data in this research is written text come from a novel, the data
that have been collected will be analyzed using literary theory. The
analysis data will involve some steps, those are:

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SHARRAH |7

a. Analyzing the character and characterization of George Character
toward the novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin
b. Classifying and Analyzing the narration and conversation from the
novel that are related to Maslow’s Human Need Theory
c. Analyzing the impact toward George’s Self Actualization
d. Drawing conclusion based on the result of data analysis.

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SHARRAH|8

CHAPTER II
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1

Theoretical Framework
This research will be analyzed using Maslow‘s Hierarchy of Need in

humanistic psychology approach. The researcher will explain five hierarchy of
need coined by Abraham Maslow. In order to support the analysis, the writer also
uses New Criticism as supporting theory. Those theories are explained as follows:
2.1.1

New Criticism
New Criticism is clearly characterized in premise and practice: it

is not concerned with context – historical, biographical, intellectual and
so on; it is not interested in the ‗fallacies‘ of ‗intention‘ or ‗affect‘; it is
concerned solely with the ‗text in itself‘ (Selden, et al 19). Tyson asserted
in New Criticism ―The text itself‖ became as sole source of evidenced for
interpreting literary work. (136). Knowing an author‘s intention,
therefore, tells us nothing about the text itself, which is why New Critics
coined the term intentional fallacy to refer to the mistaken belief that the
author‘s intention is the same as the text‘s meaning ( Tyson 136). For
New Criticism, a literary work is a timeless autonomous (self-sufficient)
verbal object. Readers and readings may change, but the literary text
stays the same.(Tyson 137).
New Criticism required formal element which shape or form
literary work. As Tyson mentioned that formal element is provided by the

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SHARRAH|9

language of the text itself: its images, symbols, metaphors, rhyme, meter,
point of view, setting, characterization and plot (Tyson 137). Henceforth,
based on the element above, the study will focus on character and
characterization to support the analysis.
2.1.1.1

Character and Characterization

Characters are the persons represented in a dramatic or narrative
work, who are interpreted by the reader as being endowed with particular
moral, intellectual, and emotional qualities (Abrams 32). It means that,
the existence of character in literary is significantly important to bring the
messages to the reader through ―moral, intellectual and emotional
qualities‖ of the character‘s manifestation. Thus, Brown and Tomlinson
also asserted character as an ―Actors‖ in a story who are another
elements of fictional vital to the enjoyment of story (29). According to
Abrams there are three distinctive ways to infrence the characters ; ―the
dialogue and from what they do—the action. In this case, to determine
the character, the reader may interpret the characters by their behavior
and personality in the story and it is reflected to their statement in
dialogue and their deed . Hence, the grounds in the characters'
temperament, desires, and moral nature for their speech and actions are
called their motivation. A character may remain essentially "stable," or
unchanged in outlook and disposition, from beginning to end of a work‖
(33).

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S H A R R A H | 10

E. M. Forster, in Aspects of the Novel (1927), introduced popular
new terms for an old distinction by discriminating between flat and round
characters (in Abrams 33). This classification is divided through the
complexity and alteration of the character in text. Foster stated that flat
character is built in ―single idea or quality‖ which is adequately tended to
describe by a single traits. The flat character—one without mystery,
simple, palpable, and self-contained—reassures us of our efficient grasp
of reality. Obligingly fitting our understanding, flat characters dwindle
into the emblematic, the typical (Mikics 70). In contras round character is
more complex and undergo development. It is usually able to surprise
the reader in a convincing way (33).
Furthermore, in the literary work the characters also have a
characterization. Characterization refers to the way an author help the
reader to know a character. The most obvious way an author can do this
is to describe the character physical appearance and personality (Brown
and Tomlinson 29). Characterization in literary works is one aspect to
understanding a character in the story. As Sanger affirmed that a writer‘s
use of speech for a character can obviously be very important to indicate
what that character thinks, feels or believes. Through description of every
character in the story, it makes clearer about the position of the characters
in the story and also characterization makes the story more interesting
(47).

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S H A R R A H | 11

As the result, the characterization may give information to the
reader deep understanding about the character and also provide the
author‘s depiction of the character that builds the story. Then, by using
characterization, the researcher is expected to know and to understand the
character in the novel, precisely to reveal George‘s character and the
other character that is included in the analysis.
2.1.2

The Hierarchy of Human Need by Abraham Maslow
According to Maslow‘s hierarchy of need theory there are four

needs that must be satisfied before someone can act unselfishly (Self
Actualization). The needs are arranged in hierarchical order. The upward
climb is made by satisfying one set of needs at a time (Griffin 125). The
five needs composing this hierarchy are conative needs, meaning that
they have a striving or motivational character. These needs, which
Maslow often referred to as basic needs, can be arranged on a hierarchy
or staircase, with each ascending step representing a higher need but one
less basic to survival (Feist 287). Maslow listed the following needs in
order of their prepotency: physiological, safety, love and belongingness,
esteem, and self-actualization (qtd in Feist 287).
2.1.2.1 Physiological Needs
The needs that are usually taken as the starting point for
motivation theory are the so-called physiological drives. Physiological
needs are basic: The body craves food, liquid, sleep, oxygen,sex, freedom
of movement, and a moderate temperature (Griffin 127). The

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S H A R R A H | 12

physiological needs are the highest priority because until they are
reasonably satisfied, other higher-level needs will not emerge to motivate
behavior (Francis and Kritsonis 2). Griffin gives an addition that losing
any short supply of these need is caused the distressing tension of hunger,
thirst, fatigue, shortness of breath, sexual frustration, confinement, or the
discomfort of being too hot or cold (127). Hence, satisfying of
physiological need is enormously important as the most basic need.
2.1.2.2 Safety Needs
If the physiological needs are relatively well gratified, there then
emerges a new set of need, which we may categorize roughly as the safety
need (security; stability; dependency; protection; freedom from fear;
anxiety and chaos; need for structure; order law and limits; strength in
protector and so on) (Maslow 39). Safety needs differ from physiological
needs in that they cannot be overly satiated; people can never be
completely protected from meteorites, fires, floods, or the dangerous acts
of others (Feist 288).
2.1.2.3 Love and Belongingness Needs
The love or belongingness needs come into play after the
physiological and security drives are satisfied. The love needs involving
giving and receiving affection, when they are satisfied a person will
keenly the absence of friends, mate, or children (Maslow 43). For
Maslow, giving love is seeking to fill a void by understanding and
accepting selected others. Receiving love is a way of staving off the

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S H A R R A H | 13

pangs of loneliness and rejection (Griffin 128). Maslow did not equate
love with sex, which is a physiological need, but he recognized that sex is
one way of expressing the love need. He suggested that the failure to
satisfy the need for love is a fundamental cause of emotional
maladjustment (Schultz 314).
2.1.2.4 Esteem Needs
All people in our society (with a few pathological exceptions)
have a need or desire for a stable, firmly based, (usually) high evaluation
of themselves, for self-respect, or self-esteem, and for the esteem of
others (Maslow 45). Maslow identified two levels of esteem needsreputation and self-esteem. Reputation is the perception of the prestige,
recognition, or fame a person has achieved in the eyes of others, whereas
self-esteem is a person's own feelings of worth and confidence (Feist
290). Satisfaction of the need for self-esteem allows us to feel confident
of our strength, worth, and adequacy, which will help us become more
competent and productive in all aspects of our life (Schultz 314).
2.1.2.5 Self Actualization: The Ultimate Goal
Self actualization refers to people‘s desire for self fulfillment,
namely, the tendency for them to become actualize in what they are
potentially. This tendency might be phrased as the desire to become more
and more what one is capable of becoming (Maslow 46). Selfactualization can take many forms, depending on the individual. These
variations may include the quest for knowledge, understanding, peace,

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S H A R R A H | 14

self-fulfillment, meaning in life, or beauty (Griffin 130). Selfactualization is not limited to creative and intellectual superstars such as
musicians, artists, and astrophysicists. What is important is to fulfill
one‘s own potentials at the highest level possible, whatever one‘s chosen
endeavor (Feist 315).
Maslow‘s research on emotionally healthy people formed the
basis of his personality theory. He did not find many examples of selfactualizers; he estimated that they constitute one percent or less of the
population. However, he concluded that they share certain characteristics
(Schultz 317). Maslow listed fifteen tentative qualities that characterize
self-actualizing people to at least some degree (Feist 289). It will be
explained as follows:
2.1.2.5.1

More Eficient Perception of Reality

Self-actualizers perceive their world, including other people,
clearly and objectively, unbiased by prejudgments or preconceptions
(Schultz 317) Maslow conclude that actualizers have a more efficient
perception of reality than do nonactualizers. They are more capable than
are nonactualizers of perceiving the truth in many different situations
(Ryckman 434). Thus, self actualized people who have more efficient
perception of reality are able to see clearly the truth which is sometimes
not realized by the others people. They are note easily influenced by the
condition or preconception which are occurred in their circumstance.
2.1.2.5.2

Acceptance of Self, Others, and Nature

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S H A R R A H | 15

Self actualizer can tolerate weaknesses in others and are not
threatened by others' strengths (Feist 298). Self-actualizers accept their
strengths and weaknesses. They do not try to distort or falsify their selfimage and they do not feel guilty about their failings. They also accept
the weaknesses of other people and of society in general (Schultz 317).
Thus, self actualizer are not feels inferior of the others strength and also
feels superior of the other weakness.
2.1.2.5.3

Spontaneity, Simplicity, and Naturalness

The behavior of self-actualizers is open direct, and natural. They
rarely hide their feelings or emotions or play a role to satisfy society,
(Schultz 317). They are unpretentious and not afraid or ashamed to
express joy, awe, elation, sorrow, anger, or other deeply felt emotions
(Feist 299).
2.1.2.5.4

Problem Centering

A fourth characteristic of self-actualizing people is their interest in
problems outside themselves. This interest allows selfactualizers to
develop a mission in life, a purpose for living that spreads beyond self
aggrandizement. Their occupation is not merely a means to earning a
living but a vocation, a calling, an end in itself (Feist 290).
2.1.2.5.5

The Need for Privacy

Self-actualizing people have a quality of detachment that allows
them to be alone without being lonely. Because they have already
satisfied their love and belongingness needs, they have no desperate need

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to be surrounded by other people. They can find enjoyment in solitude
and privacy. They have a global concern for the welfare of others without
becoming entangled in minute and insignificant problems (Feist 290)
2.1.2.5.6

Autonomy (Independence of Environment)

Self-actualizing people are autonomous and depend on themselves
for growth even though at some time in their past they had to have
received love and security from others (Feist 290).
2.1.2.5.7

Continued Freshness of Appreciation

Maslow (1970) wrote that "self-actualizing people have the
wonderful capacity to appreciate again and again, freshly and naively, the
basic goods of life, with awe, pleasure, wonder, and even ecstasy" (Feist
291). An experience may grow stale for someone who is not selfactualizing, but self-actualizers will enjoy each recurrence as though it
was the first. Whether a sunset, a painting, or a symphony, a baseball
game or a birthday gift—all can be seen with delight. Self-actualizers
appreciate what they have and take little for granted (Schultz 320).
2.1.2.5.8

Peak Experience

Self-actualizers know moments of intense ecstasy, not unlike deep
religious experiences, that can occur with virtually any activity. Maslow
called these events peak experiences, during which the self is transcended
and the person feels supremely powerful, confident, and decisive
(Schultz 320). Maslow says, "The peak experience is seen only as
beautifid, good, desirable,worthwhile, etc., and is never experienced as

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evil or undesirable".Maslow also believed that the peak experience often
has a lasting effect on a person's life (Feist 291).
2.1.2.5.9

Gemeinschaftsgefiihl

Self-actualizers may become angry, impatient, or disgusted with
others; but they retain a feeling of affection for human beings in general.
More specifically, Maslow (1970) stated that self-actualizing people are
"often saddened, exasperated, and even enraged by the shortcomings of
the average person (Feist 292).
2.1.2.5.10 Profound Interpersonal Relations
Although their circle of friends is not large, selfactualizers have
deep, lasting friendships. They tend to select as friends those with
personal qualities similar to their own, just as we all choose as friends the
people we find compatible (Schultz 320) Self-actualizers are often
misunderstood and sometimes despised by others. On the other hand,
many are greatly loved and attract a large group of admirers and even
worshipers, especially if they have made a notable contribution to their
business or professional field (Feist 292)
2.1.2.5.11 Democratic Character Structure
Self-actualizers are tolerant and accepting of the personality and
behavior of others. They display no racial, religious, or social prejudice.
(Schultz 320) Self-actualizers befriend people of all classes, races, and
ethnic groups, and often seem virtually unaware of such differences.
They strongly and effectively oppose injustice, cruelty, and the

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exploitation of others (Robert 227). Beyond this democratic attitude, selfactualizers have a desire and an ability to learn from anyone. In a
learning situation, they recognize how little they know in relation to what
they could know (Feist 292).
2.1.2.5.12 Discrimination Between Means and Ends
Self-actualizing people have a clear sense of right and wrong
conduct and have little conflict about basic values. They set their sights
on ends rather than means and have an unusual ability to distinguish
between the two. What other people consider to be a means (e.g., eating
or exercising), self-actualizing people often see as an end in itself. (Feist
293).
2.1.2.5.13 Philosophical Sense of Humor
Another distinguishing characteristic of self-actualizing people is
their philosophical, nonhostile sense of humor. They make fewer tries at
humor than others, but their attempts serve a purpose beyond making
people laugh. They amuse, inform, point out ambiguities, provoke a
smile rather than a guffaw (Feist 293).
2.1.2.5.14 Creativeness
Self-actualizing people are highly creative and exhibit
inventiveness and originality in their work and other facets of life. They
are flexible, spontaneous, and willing to make mistakes and learn from
them (Schultz 320). Maslow pointed out that creativity can come from
almost anywhere. He said that whereas his self actualizing mother-in-law

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had no special talents as a writer or artist, she was truly creative in
preparing homemade3w soup. Maslow remarked that first-rate soup was
more creative than second-rate poetry (Feist 302).
2.1.2.5.15 Resistance to Enculturation
Self-actualizers are autonomous, independent, and self-sufficient.
They feel free to resist social and cultural pressures to think or behave in
a certain way. They do not openly rebel against cultural norms or social
codes, but they are governed by their own nature rather than the strictures
of society (Schultz 321). A final characteristic identified by Maslow was
resistance to enculturation. Self actualizing people have a sense of
detachment from their surroundings and are able to transcend a particular
culture (Feist 293).
Furthermore, based on explanation above are noticed that there are certain
characteristics which are shaped people as self actualizer. From fifteen
tentative qualities of self actualizing people that have mentioned at least some
degrees of the characteristics are included in self actualizing people.
2.2 Review of Related Studies
In order to enlarge the knowledge about this research, the researcher
reviewed the previous study which has relation with this research in some
aspects. First is thesis which is written by Estefanía Ons Paz from Goteborgs
University entitled The moral value of slavery as represented in Harriet
Beecher Stowe‘s Uncle Tom’s Cabin. The aim of this essay is to show
how Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe, represents the

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S H A R R A H | 20

morality

of

slavery

and

the

conflict

between

the institution

and

Christianity. It is necessary to talk about the main characters to explain
the value of slaves and see how they were treated. Therefore, it also describes
the power of Christian characters as well as the role that women play in
the novel.
The second is the thesis entitled Racial Stereotypes in Fictions of
Slavery:Uncle Tom´s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe and O Escravo by José
Evaristo D‘ Almeida written by Isanilda Conceicao Ferreira. This thesis
describes and compares the different characteristic from the context from those
novels. Because Harriet Beecher Stowe‘s Uncle Tom’s Cabin and José
Evaristo D‘Almeida O Escravo both denounced the evils of slavery which
happened in the United States of America. However, they are both ambivalent
towards slaves and blacks, being unable to envisage social equality for the two
races. Both authors construct their black characters as stereotypical others,
but they depict the light-skin characters as superior both culturally and
physically.
The third is the Thesis entitled an analysis of Uncle Tom‘s Religiousity
in Harriet Beecher Stowe‘s Novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Roida M Saragih
from University of North Sumatera Medan. This thesis talks about Uncle
Tom‘s religiosity which cast about his obstinacy to face the life around of his
master‘s violence. Based on the explanation above which three studies had
been done by students of some universities; they uses the same object but in
different focus. Meanwhile the study focuses on George character a prominent

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S H A R R A H | 21

of the study wants to reveal the struggle that was done by George until he gets
his freedom and reaches his self-actualization.

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CHAPTER III
Fulfillment of George’s Self Actualization in Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin
“What a Man Can Be, He Must Be”
(Maslow)
In Motivation and Personality, Abraham Maslow claims, “A musician
must make music an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at
peace with himself. What a man can be, he must be.”(46) This being what a
person can and must be is what Maslow calls “self-actualization,” which is the
apex of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, his theory of human motivation. Below selfactualization are four lower levels of basic physical and social needs. Starting at
the bottom of the hierarchy and coming upward, the other four needs are
Physiological, Safety, Love, Belonging, and Esteem.
George is one of the slave’s characters in Stow’s Uncle Tom’ Cabin who
interestingly pulls special attention to be analyzed because of his hardship to
strive for freedom. He initiatively runs away from his cruel master to achieve his
personal desire to be a freeman. It reflects in Maslow’s statement which stated
that self actualizing people have the desire to become more and more what one
idiosyncratically is to become everything that one is capable of becoming.
Although there are many hindrances and obstacles that is undergone by George
but it does not make him losing his pretension to be free.
This analysis provides the depiction of George’s struggle to achieve his
liberty and fulfillment of four basic needs before he reaches his self actualization.

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This study is also provides the explanation of George’s characteristic as self
actualizer and the impact of George’s self actualization.
3.1

George’s Struggle to Reach Self Actualization
It has been explained in previous chapter, there are five clusters in

Abraham’s human need theory that must be fulfilled before someone reaches self
actualization. Those needs are arranged in hierarchical form. It is started from the
most basic drives and the lowest level, Physiological Needs and climb upward to
the Safety Needs, then desire for Love and Belonging and then the quest for
Esteem Needs until reach the highest level, self – Actualization.
3.1.1

George’s Struggle for Physiological Needs
George has gotten miserable life since he was a child. His mother is

sold separately with his family in Sherif’s sell. Unfortunately, he gets a bad
master who treats him roughly. George gets the difficulty to fulfill his
physiological drive. His master’s mistreatment is reflected when George has
been starving. He does not have a food to consume except the dog’s
leftover. “Why, sir, I've been so hungry that I have been glad to take the
bones they threw to their dogs (115).
The need of food is essential for human body. The lack of food will
greatly impact to the body’s ability to function properly. Normal people are
willingly to do anything to get food. Feist stated that the hunger people “do
not see beyond food, and as long as this need remains unsatisfied, their
primary motivation is to obtain something to eat” (313). In this case, George

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starving motivates him to fulfill his need by any possible way. George’s
starving ignores the fact that the food has been eaten by the dog and it was
not appropriately consumed by people. As an addition a truly hungry person
will not be overly particular about taste, smell, temperature, or texture of the
food (Feist 313). Hence, that is the reason why George does still consume
the dog’s leftover.
Violence toward the slave common occurs around the enslavement. At
that time, the masters often treat their slave roughly because they consider
their slave as a property. It is asserted in George’s statement which”not a
living soul that cared for me [George] more that dog”(115). Thus, it is not
surprised that he often gets violence and torturing such as “whipping,
scolding and starving” (115). .
Feist asserts physiological needs as the most proponent of all (288). It
assumes that a people will not able to reach the other need before satisfying
physiological drive. It encompass the body craves food, liquid, sleep,
oxygen, sex, freedom of movement, and a moderate temperature and soon
(Griffin 127). Sex is one aspect of physiological need. The fulfillment
sexual drive especially in marriage people is vitally important for continuing
the next generation. Yet, George’s life gradually has changed since he
grows older and works to be an employer in the bagging factory. During the
time of his employment he is able to propose and marry his neighbor’s slave
named Eliza. A couple years of his marriage, George is given a gift by “the
birth of little Harry”(13). The story may not clearly explain, George sexual

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S H A R R A H | 25

activity yet, the birth of his son could be describe as his fulfillment of sexual
drive.
During his escape, there are no difficulties to fulfill his physiological
need. George saves some money for living. His condition is also helped by
the existence of Mr. Wilson. Mr. Wilson is the chief of his former factory.
He helps and teaches George many things during his working. Surprisingly,
they meet in the same hotel in the middle of George journey. But, George is
disguise to be Spaniard to shield himself from the people.
"George!" said Mr. Wilson.
"Yes, George," said the young man.
"I couldn't have thought it!"
"I am pretty well disguised, I fancy," said the young man, with a
smile.
"A little walnut bark has made my yellow skin a genteel brown, and
I've dyed my hair black; so you see I don't answer to the advertisement
at all." (111)
Mr. Wilson is a very kind person. Thus, he gives some money to help
George. George tries to refuse Mr. Wilson but finally he takes it as a loan.
"No, my kind, good sir!" said George, "you've done a great deal for
me, and this might get you into trouble. I have money enough, I hope,
to take me as far as I need it."
"No; but you must, George. Money is a great help everywhere; -- can't
have too much,if you get it honestly. Take it, -- do take it, now, -- do,
my boy!"
"On condition, sir, that I may repay it at some future time, I will," said
George, taking up the money. (116)
This quote gives evidence that George does not have to worry during
his journey. He has money which is able to provide his physiological need
such as eating, sleeping and soon.

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In the middle of his journey to Canada, George arrives in Quaker
settlement where he finally meets his wife and son. The Quakers are so
helpful during his escape. They treat George and his family very well and
serve delicious food and comfortable shelter for them.
Everything went on so sociably, so quietly, so harmoniously, in the
great kitchen, …even the knives and forks had a social clatter as they
went on to the table; and the chicken and ham had a cheerful and
joyous fizzle in the pan, as if they rather enjoyed being cooked than
otherwise; -- and when George and Eliza and little Harry came out,
they met such a hearty, rejoicing welcome, no wonder it seemed to
them like a dream.(145)

Though, he is in dangerous journey, George is still able to fulfill his
physiological drive. Soon after he faces many troubles and obstacles finally
George and his family arrives to their destination, Canada. He lives happily
with his family as a freeman. ”George and Eliza had now been five years
free. George had found constant occupation in the shop of a worthy
machinist, where he had been earning a competent support for his family
(447). Being a machinist reflects his financial freedom which is able to
support his family during his living in Canada.
Based on those explanations above, clearly depict George’s
fulfillment of physiological need since he was a slave until he reaches his
freedom. George’s fulfillment is depicted by his fulfillment of his sexual
need, food and his financial freedom when he arrives in Canada. Therefore,
it proves that he is ready to climb up to next level, safety need

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3.1.2

George’s Struggle for Safety Need
It is quite hard to provide George’s fulfillment in security. As a