The influence of friendship on Kafka Tamura's personality changes in Kafka on the Shore Novel

This research examines the character development of Kafka Tamura in Murakami's novel . The novel tells the story of a fifteen-year-old boy named Kafka Tamura who runs away from home to find his long-lost mother and sister. Then, the researcher formulates three problems: (1) How was Kafka Tamura depicted in the novel? (2) How is Kafka and Oshima's relationship described in the novel? (3) How does Oshima influence Kafka's personality changes? This research uses a descriptive qualitative method to analyze and collect data based on sentences or narratives in the novel to explain the issues discussed. The researcher uses the new criticism concept of close reading in collecting data. In the interpretation process, the researcher made a data table and then classified and analyzed it based on categories such as characterization, character change, and influence. This study shows that Kafka had four characteristics: Rebellious, Closed-off, Curious, and Having Low Self-esteem. However, Kafka's personality changes when he meets Oshima, and they become friends. Kafka's changes are separated into positive and negative ways. Kafka's vulnerability and obedience are his change positively. In addition, Kafka also changes into immoral, which is negative.