Naoji in The Setting Sun : A Study of Nihilism

Pradana, Deva Elang Nusa (2025) Naoji in The Setting Sun : A Study of Nihilism. S1 thesis, Universitas PGRI Madiun.

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Abstract

This study investigates the destructive impact of nihilism on the character of Naoji in Osamu Dazai’s The Setting Sun, focusing on how philosophical despair manifests in his psychological and behavioral decline. The core problem addressed is how nihilistic beliefs especially in the form of passive nihilism are reflected through Naoji’s character development and how these beliefs lead him toward self-destruction. Drawing on Friedrich Nietzsche’s theory of nihilism, particularly the distinction between passive and active nihilism, this research explores the inner collapse that follows the rejection of traditional values in post-war Japan. Unlike active nihilists who respond to meaninglessness by creating new values, passive nihilists resign themselves to despair, apathy, and withdrawal. Using a qualitative literary analysis approach, the study applies close reading and thematic analysis to examine Naoji’s journal entries, actions, and identity crisis. The results reveal that Naoji’s existential void is driven by cultural displacement, emotional alienation, and a deep sense of futility rooted in societal decay. He exhibits symptoms of passive nihilism self-loathing, addiction, silence, and emotional paralysis culminating in his ultimate act of self-destruction. His identity, torn between aristocratic heritage and post-war disillusionment, collapses under the weight of meaninglessness. The findings underscore how nihilism, when unchallenged, becomes not only a philosophical stance but also a lived experience of psychological ruin. This research contributes to the philosophical-literary discourse on the dangers of unaddressed existential despair and offers insight into how cultural and historical trauma can intensify individual nihilistic tendencies.

Item Type:	Thesis/Skripsi/Tugas Akhir (S1)
Kata Kunci:	Nihilism;Passive Nihilism;Osamu Dazai;The Setting Sun;Friedrich Nietzsche.
Subjects:	P Language and Literature > PN Literature (General)
Divisions:	Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan > Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris
Depositing User:	NUSA ELANG DEVA
Date Deposited:	04 Aug 2025 04:19
Last Modified:	04 Aug 2025 04:19
URI:	http://eprint.unipma.ac.id/id/eprint/3538

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