A Formulaic Analysis of Andy Weir's The Martian

Abstract

In this thesis, The Martian, one of the famous novels, is analyzed using formulaic theory by John G. Cawelti. This thesis determines The Martian formulaic pattern so that it can become one of the most famous novels. This thesis also tries to determine whether the formula in this novel has any connection to human space travel in the United States. This thesis uses qualitative research methodology. There are two categories of data. The primary data are taken directly from Andy Weir's novel The Martian. Secondary data are taken from books, websites, journals, and articles about human space travel in the United States. Finding the standardization of The Martian novel is presented as the starting point for the discussion. Finding standardization is done by analyzing the intrinsic elements of this novel, namely: plot, setting, and characterization. After analyzing the standardization of this novel, it is found that The Martian novel has a moral fantasy as an adventure story. Apart from helping to find the moral fantasy of this novel, standardization also helps to find the escapism of this novel. The escapism of this novel is about space travel. Andy Weir, as the writer, uses space travel to tell Watney's journey. The discovery of escapism also leads to the discovery that this novel fits one of the hypotheses about the relationship between formula and culture. The Martian takes a background about space travel. The United States, where this novel was written, is a country that is concerned about space travel. In addition, The Martian affirms the interests and attitudes in the United States that humans actually have interests and attitudes towards the conquest of the universe. Scientific advances, especially regarding human space travel missions, are used by the United States as one of the tools to fulfil its ambition to conquer the universe.