REPRESENTASI IKUMEN PADA TOKOH LOID FORGER DALAM ANIME SPY X FAMILY KARYA TATSUYA ENDO (KAJIAN SOSIOLOGI SASTRA)

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the representation of the ikumen phenomenon and the challenges of fatherhood through the character of Loid Forger in the anime Spy × Family by Tatsuya Endo. The research employs a sociological literary approach using Stuart Hall’s (2013) constructionist theory of representation. The research data consist of scenes depicting paternal participation in childrearing and domestic work, as well as the challenges faced, which are analyzed based on dialogue, character actions, and supporting visual elements. Data were collected using observation and note-taking techniques and analyzed through a descriptive-analytical method.

The results show that Loid Forger represents the ikumen phenomenon through active involvement in childrearing, such as spending time with his child, providing emotional support, engaging in learning and play activities, and taking work leave for the child’s needs. In addition, Loid is portrayed as participating in domestic tasks, including cooking and grocery shopping. However, this representation of ikumen is not free from structural challenges, such as conflicts between work and family demands, social pressure in public spaces, and limited support from the workplace. Therefore, Spy × Family represents ikumen as an actively involved father while simultaneously portraying the social constraints that limit paternal caregiving practices in contemporary Japanese society.