Representation of Siri’ in the Novel Tenggelamnya Kapal Van Der Wijck

Abstract

This article examines how the Bugis-Makassar value of siri’ is depicted in the novel Tenggelamnya Kapal Van Der Wijck by Haji Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah (often shortened to “Buya Hamka,” or simply “Hamka”). Through framing analysis of select dialogue and narration depicting siri’ from the novel supplemented by relevant literature sourced from journals, books, and web articles, this examination found that, although the protagonist character of Zainuddin has both Makassar and Minang roots and was written with the intent to represent the Makassar perspective, Hamka’s own background as a Minangkabau ethnic (albeit one who lived in Makassar for an extensive period) results in incomplete depictions of the regional value of siri’ and Makassar customs.