Refleksi Kondisi Ekonomi Native American dalam Cerita This is What it Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona Karya Sherman Alexie

Abstract

This study examine the reflection of Native american economic conditions in the 1990s as potrayed in Sherman alexie’s short story This is What It Means to say Phoenix, Arizona. As literary works often reflect social realities, this study focuses on economic struggles are represented through the experiences of the main characters, Victor and Thomas. The research employs a qualitative method with a sociology of literature approach using a Marxist perspective. The data are analyzed through a narrative examination of key events and character experiences related to economic conditions. The findings reveal tha the short story reflects persistent economic issues such as poverty, unemployment, and limited access to finansial resources, whic are rooted in historical inequality and structural marginalization. These conditions, as experienced by the characters, represent broader socio-economic realities faced by native American communities living in reservations. Therefore, this study highlights tha literary works funcition not only as artistic expressions but also as representations of social and economic realities, particulalry those of marginalized groups.