Alina Starkov's character development in Leigh Bardugo's novel Shadow and Bone

The novel Shadow and Bone tells a woman named Alina Starkov whose life changes after discovering a great power within Alina Starkov, who was once just an ordinary woman, now has to try to become strong to protect her male friend and fight Darkling, who wants to use her power. This study discusses the main character who tries to accept and develop his potential in order to become a strong figure. This study aims to explain the characteristics of Alina Starkov, the influence of Baghra in Alina's personality development, and how Alina fights Darkling.In conducting this research, the researcher uses the theory of New Criticism. This study uses a qualitative method to analyze the novel Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo as the primary reference. The researcher collects data through quotes in the novel that explain what the main character goes through until she becomes a strong woman.The results obtained from this study characterization of Alina Starkov are: cowardice, insecure, overthinking, and weak. Baghra was influential in Alina's personality development. The trigger factors for Alina's personality development are Strong Motivation and Significant People. Alina manages to master her powers and becomes a strong female main character to defeat Darkling.