The shadow archetype in Nam Ron’s monodramas

This study analyses how emotional struggle and self-confrontation are expressed in Nam Ron’s monodramas Lembu (2002), Mat Derih Kola Perlih (2003), and Laut Lebih Indah Dari Bulan (2006). Using Carl Jung’s Archetype Theory with a focus on the Shadow, the research aims to analyse how personal struggle and self-confrontation appear in Nam Ron’s monodrama, to portray how these expressions differ across the three monodramas, and to interpret these expressions using Jung’s Shadow. A qualitative approach is applied, combining textual analysis with semi-structured interviews involving Nam Ron, performers, and academicians. The findings indicate that all three monodramas consistently unveil repressed, concealed, and conscience-driven emotions through the monologue structure, establishing the Shadow as an effective framework for comprehending their emotional trajectory. The study offers a new perspective on Malaysian monodrama and expands scholarly insight into Nam Ron’s approach to character and emotional expression.