NURMELASARI
NIM 104026000931
ENGLISH LETTERS DEPARTMENT
LETTERS AND HUMANITIES FACULTY
SYARIF HIDAYATULLAH STATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY
JAKARTA
A Thesis
Submitted to Letters and Humanities Faculty in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for
the Strata One Degree
NURMELASARI
NIM 104026000931
ENGLISH LETTERS DEPARTMENT
LETTERS AND HUMANITIES FACULTY
SYARIF HIDAYATULLAH STATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY
JAKARTA
(UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah, July 17, 2010.
In this research, the writer analyzed a movie entitled Anna and The King, a well-crafted and elaborate spectacle which is taken from a book of memoirs or a biography of a true story. The research is aimed to analyze one of the main characters described in the movie, Anna, and the feminism values delivered in it. The research focuses on two problems: first, what is the characterization of main character Anna Leonowens described in the film Anna and The King? And the second, what is the feminism values presented in the story played by Anna Leonowens in the film Anna and The King? The movie is carefully and accurately analyzed using the intrinsic theory of character and the theory of feminism as a response to the research problem. The method used in this research is qualitative method.
The writer found seventeen characterizations in the main character Anna Leonowens, and also discussed six feminism values in the film Anna and The King. The writer mainly referred to the most well-defined theory stated by Jane Fredman who talked about 1) law: political right; no females in charge in the government; all political positions were taken by males. However, Anna proved that female also has the competency to take part in governance, 2) economic issue: property right; it is not either explicitly or implicitly stated about property sharing through the social life of people in this story. Yet, the story describes a little bit about property right issue in the king family and Anna, and 3) social field: educations right; there are two relevant cases analyzed about equal opportunity in education. An action did by the King and the one implemented by Anna.
Furthermore to support the main theory, the writer also referred to theories stated by Rosemarie Putnam Tong and Mansour fakih, since Fredman did not mention about 4 and 5) feminism conscious action; awareness toward the gender unfairness was felt by Anna when she found out that Tuptim was sent to the king by her family as a gift to show family’s loyalty and dedication to the king who has been assumed as a god by his people, but then a conscious action was also finally done by Tuptim and her lover. This story also described how Anna responded to it. This conscious action was also finally done by Tuptim and her lover. This story is also described how Anna responded to it. Not only that, on slavery matters, Anna did a very fantastic action that positively changed Siam. The last point,6) Women’s Point of View which is against feminism; The case described in this story is played by all King’s wives and concubines who seemed comfortable with their condition so far. Yet, Anna showed on the contrary.
IN ANNA AND THE KING MOVIE
A Thesis
Submitted to Letters and Humanities Faculty in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for
the Strata One Degree
NURMELASARI NIM: 104026000931
Approved by Advisor :
Elve Oktafiyani, M.Hum NIP. 19781003 200112 2 002
ENGLISH LETTERS DEPARTMENT LETTERS AND HUMANITIES FACULTY
STATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY SYARIF HIDAYATULLAH JAKARTA
2010
The thesis has been defended before the Faculty Letter and Humanities’ Examination Committee on July 21, 2010. It has been accepted as a partial fulfillment of the requirements for Strata One Degree.
Jakarta, July 21, 2010
Examination Committee
Signature Date
1. Dr.H. Muhammad Farkhan, M.Pd
NIP. 19650919 00003 1 002 (Chair person)
2. Drs. Asep Saefuddin, M.Pd
NIP. 19640710 199303 1 006 (Secretary)
3. Elve Oktafiyani, M.Hum
NIP. 19781003 200112 2 002 (Advisor)
4. Dr. Frans Sayogie, M.Pd.
NIP 19700310 200003 1 002 (Examiner I)
5. Drs. Asep Saefuddin, M.Pd
NIP. 19640710 199303 1 006 (Examiner II)
published or written by another person nor material which to substantial extent has been accepted for the award of any other degree or diploma of the university or other institute of higher learning, except where due acknowledgment has been made in the text.
Jakarta, July 21, 2010
Nurmelasari
Praise be to Allah, who promised his faithful slaves victory and support by saying, "And it was a duty incumbent upon Us to aid those who believed." I bear witness that there is none to be worshipped save Allah, One, with no partners. He sent His Messenger Muhammad with guidance and the religion of Truth to cause it to prevail over all religions even though the unbelievers may detest it." and I bear witness that our Master, Prophet, and Beloved Muhammad is the Last Messenger of Allah, He is the Imam of the Pious, the Master of the Messengers and the Mercy to the worlds
This paper is presented to the Department of English Letters, Faculty of Adab and Humanities, Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University Jakarta. It is made to address one of the final requirements of graduate study. This work could hardly be completed without a great deal of involvement from some people, particularly Mrs. Elve Oktafiyani who has successfully conducted her noble mission as the advisor. With her genuine guide and support, the writer could eventually accomplish her research. May Allah bless and give happiness to her and family.
Earnestly, the writer also would like to express her deepest gratitude to those who have given tons of favors on this research, they are:
4. All lectures of English Department, Mrs. Innayatul Chusna, Mrs. Dini Masitah, Mr. Abdul Hamid, Mrs. Danti Pudjiati, Mr. M Supardi, Mrs. Rosida, Dr. Frans Sayogie and many others who have contributed precious knowledge especially to that the writer.
5. Her big family : Her beloved parents (Nina Rusmiati & Nuryaman), She will not let you both down. Her wise Grandparents (E.Machpudi, Euis Heryana, Yeti Kusyeti), Thanks for being good educators for her mom and dad. Her kind Uncle & Aunt (Rika Herdiyanti & H.TB Ade Jamhari) who have provided a comfortable home stay for her. Her foster Mom (Titin Kartini, M.Pd) who has been very close and kind to the writer. Her Cousins (Hildawati, Akmal Andhika), thanks for sharing the sweet moments together and laughing.
6. Her fiance (Adnan Husna Yusuf) who never stops supporting her, thanks for true love and keep her best every time. She loves you indeed.
7. Best friends: Yulianah devi, Mika, Wa Ode, Nur and all her unique classmates.
8. Amalina Islamic School, LECC, thank you for giving lots of great opportunities to her.
betterment of this work.
Jakarta, September 20, 2010
The Writer
APPROVEMENT
………. iiA.Character and Characterization ……….. 6
B.
Feminism ………... 9
1. First Wave ……….. 11
2. Second Wave ………...……….. 13
3. Third Wave ……….……….. 16
CHAPTER III. RESEARCH FINDINGS
……… 17A1. Data Description of Characterization ………... 17
A2. Data Description of Feminism Values………... 21
ix
B. Suggestion ………... 50
BIBLIOGRAPHY
………. 51A. Background of the study
In the mid of the 18th century, feminism was used to refer to the equalities of female, and it was not until after the First International Woman’s Conference in Paris in 1892 that the term, following the French term feminist, was used regularly in English for a belief in and advocacy of equal rights for women based on the idea of the equality of the sexes.
Feminism compromise a number of social, cultural and political movements, theories and moral philosophies concerned with gender inequalities and equal rights for women. The word “feminism” itself originated from the French word féminisme in the nineteenth century, either as a medical term to describe the feminization of a male body, or to describe women with masculine traits.1 When it was used in the United States in the early part of the twentieth century it was only used to refer to one group of women, namely that group which the uniqueness of women, the mystical experience of motherhood and women’s special purity. Yet, feminism is to make an equal position between men and women.
1
Jane Pilcher and Imelda Whelehan. Fifty Key Concepts in Gender Studies.( London : SAGE publication Ltd, 2004 ), p.48.
Film mostly reflects the social condition in certain community. It raises about feminism issues which in social condition between men and women can find something like treat differently and make gender inequalities. In this case film is more complete to describe feminism in society because film is cultural artifacts created by specific cultures, which reflect those cultures, and, in turn, affect them. Film is considered to be an important art form, a source of popular entertainment and a powerful method for educating or indoctrinating citizens. The visual elements of cinema give motion pictures a universal power of communication.2
One of the most extraordinary films that indirectly present feminism issues is Anna and The King. Since it describes about the portrait of gender injustice that happened in early of nineteenth century in Siam, this film deserves a thorough analysis. This movie tells about King Mongkut who used the patriarchal convention as the legal law toward his command. Men have power toward women. Women are forbidden in public sphere. Women do not have right to give order to men and they forbade sharing their opinion. Those are some of feminism values presented in this story, and perhaps there are still many others can be analyzed.
Besides having an interesting story, this film also created based on upon diaries the real life of Anna Leonowens that recounted in her own books; The English Governess at the Siamese Court (1870) and The Romance of Harem (1873) which is Anna’s part of biography and travelogue. In these books, she
2
gives some critiques for Siamese court for the way treat slaves. She also represents an important link in 19th century cultural imperialism.
Consequently, in this research, the writer hopefully can reveal much deeper about feminism values delivered by the movie by exploring as many related theories as possible so that the writer can show that this movie is really gender-educating and worth-watching.
B. Focus of the Study
In this research, the writer would like to perform a character analysis
which will focus on Anna Leonowens, one of the main characters in the movie
of Anna & The King, and a gender analysis concentrating on the feminism values brought up through this story.
C. Research Questions
Based on the focus of the study, the statement of problems is as follows:
1. What are the characterizations found in Anna Leonowens and how are
they described in Anna & The King movie ?
2. What are the values of feminism found in Anna & The King movie and how are they delivered?
D. Objectives of the Study
1. To find out what characterizations are found in Anna Leonowens and how
they are described in the movie of Anna & The King.
2. To find out what values of feminism are found in the story Anna & The King and how they are delivered.
E. Significance of the Study
1. Telling the readers more about other theories on feminism.
2. Informing the readers a specific way in performing a character analysis.
F. Research Methodology
1. The Method of the Research
The writer uses the qualitative method in analysis of movie. The writer would like to correlate the data analysis with concept, so it will get correlation between data analysis, concept and research question.
2. The Data Analysis
In this research, the writer will use the intrinsic theory of character
analysis to analyze the main character, and she will refer to several gender
3. Instrument of the Research
Instrument of the research is the writer herself. The writer will watch
the movie and scan the whole subtitle that will be analyzed carefully and
accurately. The points found will be elaborated then with the intrinsic
theory of character analysis and with several gender theories for analyzing
the feminism values presented in the movie of Anna & The King to response the research problems above.
4. The Unit of Analysis
The unit of analysis that is used in this research is the film Anna and
The King directed by Andy Tennant and produced by 20th Century Fox in 2000.
5. Place and Time of the Research
CHAPTER II
THEORITICAL FRAMEWORK
A. Character and Characterization
Character is a big part of films. It is representing the emotion between the performance and audiences. By character the viewers can get the theme and understand the story. Alfred Hitchcock says “ I don’t want to film a slice of life because people can get that at home, in the street or even in front of the movie theater. They don’t have to pay money to see a slice of life. And I avoid out and out fantasy because people should be able to identify with the characters .” 3
Yet, the viewers must know what the character is. If the viewers can recognize how the characters they can feel the emotion and memorable personality of the characters.
Robert in his book assumed that character is an author’s representation of a human being, specifically of those inner qualities that determine how an individual reacts to various conditions or attempts to shape his or her environment, choices and actions indicates character.4
The method a writer uses to reveal the personality of a character in a literary works methods include :
3
Joseph M. Boggs and Dennis W. Petrie, The Art of Watcing FilmsFifth Edition (London : Mayfield Publishing Company, 2000 ), p. 31.
4
Edgan Roberts, Writing Themes about Literature (New Jersey : Prentice Hall Incorporated, 1977 ), p. 54.
1. by what the characters says about him or her self 2. by what others reveal about the character , and 3. by the characters own action. 5
Character and characterization are different. A character is person in literary work and characterization is the way in which a character is created. From those distinctions, characterization can be understood as a method and character is the product.6
Character is the person presented in dramatic or narrative work, who are interpreted by the reader as being endowed with moral dispositional and emotional qualities that are express in what they dialogue and by what they do, the action. Kennedy in his book gives the explanation :
“ The important thing for the reader to remember about characterization is that there are many varieties and many combinations of varieties. An adventure story may have an important realistic or figurative dimension that will be clear in its characterizations. As readers we must be alert and ready to respond to different kinds of characterization on their own condition.” 7
In film, characterization depends on functions. The character is followed from what he or she has to do in the play. Plays tends to emphasize the distinctions between major characters whose actions and fate are the focus of the plot, and minor ones who facilitate what happens. Characterization can involve developing a variety of aspects of a character such as appearance, age, gender,
5
Http//www.edu/literature/Peterson, asp. Retrieved September, 15. 2009.
6
Richard Gill, Mastering English Literature ( London : Macmillan, 1995 ), p.105.
7
educational level, occupation, financial status, marital status, social status, hobbies etc.
The author presents the readers with many clues. For recognition and evaluation of character in his story. These clues are comparable to the ways by which we evaluate people in the world around us, they are:
1. Action. We judge people by the way act, particularly in crucial situation.
2. A person’s speech. Like his action, can be very reveal. In addition to showing such thing as age, nationality, education, all of which serve as identification. Speech can reveal habits of mind and the reaction to people and events both sharply indicative of character.
3. Description. Physical appearance can be a clue to character, but the writer of fiction seldom stresses it.
4. Environment. The presenting of a person’s surroundings, particularly those he deliberately chooses, including the recreations he keeps contributing to an understanding of his character.
5. Though. To reveal a person’s though is an act of omniscience. Mental states such as nervous, anger, horror can be indicated by physical reaction, such as sweating palm, etc.
6. Explanation. Explanation is an outright statement by the author about his characters.8
8
From the explanation above can resume that characterization is the process by which a writer makes the character seems real to the reader or we also can say that characterization is the method used by a writer to develop a character in his story.
B. Feminism
The word of feminism originated from the French word feminism in the 19th century, either as a medical term to describe the feminization of a male body, or to describe women with masculine traits. Used its was used in the United States in the early part of the twentieth century it was only used to refer to one group of women: ’namely’ that group with the uniqueness of women, the mystical experience of motherhood and women special purity . 9 Yet, feminism is to make an equal position between men and women.
Women were placed in the second position which is always depending on men.10 This condition makes women as a week person in physic and intellectual. The tanet that women’s virtues differed from those of men was canonized in Aristotelian philosophy. Based on the commonly held belief in women’s relative physical weakness and rational inadequacies in comparison to men, Aristotle (384-382 B.C.E).11
The other definition are in the oxford companion to American literature by James D. Haart (1985), feminism reform movement aiming at the social,
9
Jane Pilcher and Imelda Whelehan, op.cit.p.48.
10
Asmaeny Azis, Feminism Profetik (Yogyakarta: kreasi wacana Yogyakarta, 2007),p.54.
11
educational and political equality of women and men, which arose during the late 18th century12. Therefore, feminism takes side of women who exploited, ignored and discriminated. Feminism means talk about oppression, hegemony, unfair and violence.
In the early 19th century, feminist movement demanded in the law, economic and social field. They considered the political right was not needed. In economic, feminist demanded property right. Before marriage, the property belonged to their husband. After getting married, it automatically becomes the property of their wives. Furthermore, almost working field was limited of women. In social life, demands were to get the same opportunity in education as men.13 In the past men wanted the women to be good housewife who manage household and family. As a result they could only spend their lives in domestic.
Rosemarie said that feminism is an awareness of the gender unfairness, which is felt by women, either in the family or society also the conscious action done by either women or men to change the state of condition. Meanwhile, Wardah Hafizh viewed feminism as a social theory and also as a woman revolt movement that tries to create a transformation for a social prenatal which in gender is more egaliter. This purpose based on the awareness and fact that the patriarchy system, which applies in the majority of society in the world actually in
12
James D. Haart, The Companion to American Literature, 6th Edition (New York: Oxford University Press, 1995), p.212.
13
gender, is not egaliter and creates infairness against women so that it is necessary to have a transformation towards fairness14
Mansour fakih in his book, Analisis Gender and Transformasi Sosial, mentions about women Point of View which is against feminism. It is stated that once they are able to change the women’s position inside the house into women with excellent carrier would caused a disaster towards themselves. They will suffer both physically and mentally, because of too much equality. Their argumentation brought up to this matter is that the path which is actually wanted by women is to become a housewife or a wife who stays at home and a proud mother.15
Feminism divided the movement's history into three waves. The first wave refers mainly to women's suffrage movements of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries (mainly concerned with women's right to vote). The second wave refers to the ideas and actions associated with the women's liberation movement beginning in the 1960s (which campaigned for legal and social rights for women). The third wave refers to a continuation of, and a reaction to the perceived failures of, second-wave feminism, beginning in the 1990s.
1. First Wave
First-wave feminism refers to an extended period of feminist activity during the nineteenth century and early twentieth century in the United Kingdom and the United States. Originally it focused on the promotion of equal contract
14
Rosemarie Putnam Tong, Feminist Thought ( Colorado:Westview Press, 1998), p.88
15
and property rights for women and the opposition to chattel marriage and ownership of married women (and their children) by their husbands. However, by the end of the nineteenth century, activism focused primarily on gaining political power, particularly the right of women's suffrage. Yet, feminists such as Voltairine de Cleyre and Margaret Sanger were still active in campaigning for women's sexual, reproductive, and economic rights at this time.16 In 1854, Florence Nightingale established female nurses as adjuncts to the military.
In Britain the Suffragettes and, possibly more effectively, the Suffragists campaigned for the women's vote. In 1918 the Representation of the People Act 1918 was passed granting the vote to women over the age of 30 who owned houses. In 1928 this was extended to all women over twenty-one.17 In the United States, leaders of this movement included Lucretia Mott, Lucy Stone, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Susan B. Anthony, who each campaigned for the abolition of slavery prior to championing women's right to vote; all were strongly influenced by Quaker thought. American first-wave feminism involved a wide range of women. Some, such as Frances Willard, belonged to conservative Christian groups such as the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. Others, such as Matilda Joslyn Gage, were more radical, and expressed themselves within the National Woman Suffrage Association or individually. American first-wave feminism is considered to have ended with the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution (1919), granting women the right to vote in all states.
16
Http://www.feministsforlife.org. retrieved January 2, 2010.
17
The term first wave was coined retrospectively after the term second-wave feminism began to be used to describe a newer feminist movement that focused as
much on fighting social and cultural inequalities as political inequalities.18
The first wave of feminists, in contrast to the second wave, focused very little on the subject of abortion. In general, they were against the concept. Though she never married, Anthony published her views about marriage, holding that a woman should be allowed to refuse sex with her husband; the American woman had no legal recourse at that time against rape by her husband. Of primary importance to Anthony was granting to woman the right to her own body which she saw as an essential element for the prevention of unwanted pregnancies, using abstinence as the method. In her newspaper, The Revolution, she wrote in 1869 about the subject, arguing that instead of merely attempting to pass a law against abortion, the root cause must also be addressed. Simply passing an anti-abortion law would, she wrote, "be only mowing off the top of the noxious weed, while the root remains."19
2. Second Wave
Second-wave feminism refers to the period of activity in the early 1960s
and lasting through the late 1980s. The scholar Imelda Whelehan suggests that the second wave was a continuation of the earlier phase of feminism involving the
18
Estelle B Freedman,. No Turning Back : The History of Feminism and the Future of Women. ( Ballantine Books, 2003), p. 464.
19
suffragettes in the UK and USA.20 Second-wave feminism has continued to exist since that time and coexists with what is termed third-wave feminism. The scholar Estelle Freedman compares first and second-wave feminism saying that the first wave focused on rights such as suffrage, whereas the second wave was largely concerned with other issues of equality, such as ending discrimination.21
The feminist activist and author Carol Hanisch coined the slogan "The Personal is Political" which became synonymous with the second wave. Second-wave feminists saw women's cultural and political inequalities as inextricably linked and encouraged women to understand aspects of their personal lives as deeply politicized and as reflecting sexist power structures.
The French author and philosopher Simone de Beauvoir wrote novels; monographs on philosophy, politics, and social issues, essays, biographies, and an autobiography. She is now best known for her metaphysical novels, including She Came to Stay and The Mandarins, and for her treatise The Second Sex, a detailed
analysis of women's oppression and a foundational tract of contemporary feminism. Written in 1949, its English translation was published in 1953. It sets out a feminist existentialism which prescribes a moral revolution. As an existentialist, she accepted Jean-Paul Sartre's precept existence precedes essence; hence "one is not born a woman, but becomes one." Her analysis focuses on the social construction of Woman as the other. This de Beauvoir identifies as
20
Imelda Whelehan,, Modern feminist thought: from the second wave to "post-feminism" ( Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 1995), p.65.
21
fundamental to women's oppression.22 She argues women have historically been considered deviant and abnormal and contends that even Mary Wollstonecraft considered men to be the ideal toward which women should aspire. De Beauvoir argues that for feminism to move forward, this attitude must be set aside.23
Betty Friedan's The Feminine Mystique (1963) criticized the idea that women could only find fulfillment through childrearing and homemaking. According to Friedan's obituary in the The New York Times, The Feminine Mystique “ignited the contemporary women's movement in 1963 and as a result
permanently transformed the social fabric of the United States and countries around the world” and “is widely regarded as one of the most influential nonfiction books of the 20th century.”24 In the book Friedan hypothesizes that women are victims of a false belief system that requires them to find identity and meaning in their lives through their husbands and children. Such a system causes women to completely lose their identity in that of their family. Friedan specifically locates this system among post-World War II middle-class suburban communities. At the same time, America's post-war economic boom had led to the development of new technologies that were supposed to make household work less difficult, but that often had the result of making women's work less meaningful and valuable.25
22
Beauvoir, Simone de, and Parshley, H. M. The second sex. (London: Vintage, 1997), p.208.
23
Margalit Fox, (February 5, 2006), "Betty Friedan, Who Ignited Cause in 'Feminine Mystique,' Dies at 85'", New York times
24
ibid
25
3. Third Wave
Third-wave feminism began in the early 1990s, arising as a response to perceived failures of the second wave and also as a response to the backlash against initiatives and movements created by the second wave. Third-wave feminism seeks to challenge or avoid what it deems the second wave's essentialist definitions of femininity, which over-emphasize the experiences of upper middle-class white women.
A post-structuralist interpretation of gender and sexuality is central to much of the third wave's ideology. Third-wave feminists often focus on "micro-politics" and challenge the second wave's paradigm as to what is, or is not, good for females.26 The third wave has its origins in the mid-1980s. Feminist leaders rooted in the second wave like Gloria Anzaldua, bell hooks, Chela Sandoval, Cherrie Moraga, Audre Lorde, Maxine Hong Kingston, and many other black feminists, sought to negotiate a space within feminist thought for consideration of race-related subjectivities.27
Third-wave feminism also contains internal debates between difference feminists such as the psychologist Carol Gilligan (who believes that there are important differences between the sexes) and those who believe that there are no inherent differences between the sexes and contend that gender roles are due to social conditioning.
26
Faludi, Susan. Backlash: The Undeclared war Against Women.(London: Vintage,1992), p.56.
27
CHAPTER III
RESEARCH FINDINGS
.
A 1. Data Description of Characterization:
According to the theory, characterization may involve developing a variety of aspects of a character such as appearance, age, gender, educational level, occupation, financial status, marital status, social status, hobbies, etc. 28 The following are the data of description of the characterization of Anna Leonowens along with the description, situation, and capture.
No. Characterization Situation Capture
1. Physical Appearance
Anna was a beautifully long legged and blonde long haired English woman with bright complexion, pointed nose, almond shaped and blue colored eyes, sensually small lips and slim body shape
2. Fashion
Anna loved to wear western gown or long dresses most of the time and sometimes using a big hat
28
3. Age definitely has a high level of educational background
Playing her part in the story, Anna had become a widow.
9. Social Status
his majesty King, the first class man in Siam.
10. Hobbies
Seemingly teaching is not merely a profession to her, that activity has been her hobby as well
11. Attitude & Behavior
Anna has a very good attitude and behavior. Her overall manner is so English, yet she is also appreciative and adaptive especially to teach a royal family in an extremely far country is an obvious prove that she dares to deal with a challenge.
13. A Person with Principles
Anna is a type of person who dares to argue for her principles as long as she realizes that they are true. Even to appreciate this sort of characterization the King said that Anna is not trying to be equal with a man, but a king.
14. A Logical Person
15. Dynamic & Progressive
A 2. Data Description of Feminism Value:
Next, in finding the feminism values, the writer also refers to several feminism theories. Yet, from those theories the writer mainly concentrated at the most well-defined one stated by Jane Fredman who talked about ‘law: political right, economic issue: property right, and social field: education right’. Furthermore, to support the main theory, the writer also referred to theories stated by Rosemarie Putnam Tong and Mansour fakih, since Fredman did not mention about ‘an awareness of the gender unfairness’, ‘feminism conscious action’ and ‘Women’s Point of View which is against feminism’. Those points are concluded as follows:
No.
Feminism Value
Event in the Story Capture
1. Law: the political right was not needed.
No females in charge in the government; all political positions were taken by males. However, Anna proved that female also has the competency to take part in governance.
2. Economic issue: the property right.
B1. Data Analysis of Characterization
Anna’s characterization is a really good inspiring education of life. She did shine such a light on Siam as the Chulalongkorn (the King Mongkut’s son who illustrated the story of Anna and his father) said:
“I was only a boy, but the image of my father holding the woman he loved for the last time has remained with me throughout the years. It is always surprising how small a part of life is taken up by meaningful moments. Most often they are over before they start, although they cast a light on the future and make the person who originated them unforgettable. Anna had shined such a light on Siam”
It is only one of amazing impacts of her characterization that covers three B3 (Brain, Beauty, and Behavior). Anna is a ninety nine percent perfect figure who brought tons of progressive change in Siam. She was fine in many aspects, started from her physical appearance; Anna is a beautifully long legged and blonde long haired English woman with bright complexion, pointed nose, almond shaped and blue colored eyes, sensually small lips and slim body shape. Those all physical features are objectively impressive (see Picture-Analysis 1).
Picture-Analysis 2
Picture-Analysis 1
The description of her educational level is not obviously stated as well, yet since Anna is prescribed as an experienced teacher; it is absolutely possible that she can be classified into an advanced learner who definitely has a high level of educational background (see Picture-Analysis 5).
Picture-Analysis 6
Picture-Analysis 5
The following dialogue shows the conversation between Anna and King Mongkut inferring that Anna is educated and has been working as a teacher for years.
King Mongkut : You... are teacher? Anna : Yes, Your Majesty, I am.
King Mongkut : You do not look sufficient of age for scientific teaching.
How many years have you?
Anna : Enough to know that age and wisdom do not necessarily go hand in hand.
King Mongkut : I doubt you would say same for being bold and English. They are rather inseparable, I'm afraid
Picture-Analysis 7
The following dialogue shows the conversation between Anna and her son, Louis explaining their financial status.
Anna : Don’t brother unpacking, Moonshee. It’s only for one night. It shall be settled to our satisfaction or we’ll be leaving as soon as possible.
Louis : We don’t have any money.
Anna : That is correct, but I do not need to be reminded of that.
example, she does not feel inferior to talk to a great man like king by standing face to face for it is fine in England and is considered more polite meanwhile it is considered an insult in Siam. Anna is very appreciative and adaptive especially to other different culture; she even wisely stood in the king’s side helping him illuminate the issue on having lots of wives and concubines when one of her people Mr. Kincaid, a multinational trader from England, discredited the king on that matter.
Picture-Analysis 9 Picture-Analysis 9
English Era, 1862, 26th February Madam,
We are in good pleasure, and satisfaction in heart, that you are in willingness to undertake the education of our beloved royal children. And we hope that in doing your education on us and on our children (whom English call inhabitants of benighted land) that you will do your best endeavour for knowledge of English language, science, and literature, and not for conversion to Christianity; as the followers of Buddha are aware of the powerfulness of truth and virtue, and are desirous to have facility in English language and literature, more than new religions....
Believe me, Your faithfully,
S.S.P.P. Maha Mongkut
teach a royal family in an extremely far country is an obvious proof that she dares to deal with a challenge. Not only that, in the last minutes even though she knew that the King and His royal family were in great danger, betrayed by His man chasing them with a great number of army, she still insisted to stay with Him and family and decided to help them. Regardless of her sad life history, she tried her best to support the King in the battle field (on the bridge) defending him with braveness. She said she did not want to loose the king as she lost her beloved husband who died in the forest in a war. Nevertheless, whatever the motivation is, she could never have done it without courage in her.
Anna is also a person with principles. She is a type of person who dares to argue for her principles as long as she realizes that they are true. Even to appreciate this sort of characterization the King, with smile, said that Anna is not trying to be equal of a man, but equal of a king.
Picture-Analysis 13
Anna : My husband was never threatened by my ideas or my opinions.
King Mongkut : And because I am also such I will allow you to always stand upright in my presence, providing head shall never be higher than mine.
Kaw Rub : Your Majesty, I believe there has been enough insult caused by this woman, who believes her self to be the equal of a man.
King Mongkut : Not the equal of a man, Chao Phya. The equal of a king.
Her democrat way of life makes her think that every body has right to speak up and to accept or reject an opinion but not by threatening it. Based on that concept, she really has become a woman with principle.
Talking about wisdom, commonly a woman tends to use her emotions more than her brain. However, Anna is different. She could use her knowledge to control her emotion. Science and civilization do teach her to be logical and not to use all her emotion to act or respond something particularly when she was under pressure.
Anna’s dynamic and progressive life style made her able to survive in dealing with a totally different way of life of Siamese. In fact, it helped her with the mission coming to Siam, i.e. to accelerate the civilization development of the nation. Her strong adaptation ability made her able to bring a very positive change for the king and his people.
Once, there was a critical situation for Tuptim, the new concubine of king. She was accused of doing an affair with her former lover and finally the trial decided that she and the man were guilty and should be given a very extreme punishment, death sentence. As a matter of fact, Anna could not accept it and talked to the king. However, she failed to save the couple for she also must respect the rule of nation. Anna lost Tuptim but her effort was not in vain. Her action inspired the king, who actually regretted that execution too, to look over the nation regulation. This part of story shows that to make some change Anna could not just do it abruptly, she must follow, understand, and adapt with the situation first. Here, flexibility is needed.
Picture-Analysis 15
Anna
King Mongkut
King Mongkut : Tuptim broke law !
: By loving someone?” Sacrifice your life for truth. Persecute no man.” Are these not the teaching of Buddha ?
King Mongkut : I am king ! And I say enough!
Anna : You asked me to always tell you what I think.
King Mongkut : What you think …and what you do and how…and when you do them are not the same king. If you believe I wish to execute this girl…But now, because you sat to court you can tell king what to do, I can not intervene as I had planed.
Anna : Intervene? After they’re tortured?
: Yes. But you, a woman and a foreigner, have made it seem king at your command. You have made me appear week. And impossible for me to step in and not lose face!
Anna : But you are the king.
King Mongkut : To remain such, I can not undermine ability to command loyalty, which I must have to keep country secure.
Anna : You have the power…
King Mongkut : Now is not the time to change the way that things are done!
Anna’s discipline is clearly shown when she plays her part as a teacher. Seemingly she knows well how to exactly treat the son of the king when he had a fight with her son in her very first time class. She also did not mind and is quite patient waiting the prince finishing his educational punishment.
instructed the king’s wives and children to use rockets and horn of English army to make the enemy’s troop run away frightened.
Picture-Analysis 17
King Mongkut : Why did you not go to monastry like king order ? Anna : Because I lost one man to the jungle, your Majesty.
I was not about to let that happen again.
Chulalongkorn : Mem Anna not fully to blame, Father.After all,you did put me in charge.
King Mongkut : To sound English bugles in own defense.
Anna : Yes
King Mongkut : When King say handful of men could save all Siam, he was most unusually incorrect. ( Blending his head and body forward )
actually going to be used for a celebration, toward the enemies. It worked well and made the whole armies but Alak and his two men run away fearfully.
Here, the king was so grateful of her that he pleased to admit that even a woman, Anna could save the nation. It is to clarify king’s previous statement when he said “a handful of men could save all Siam, he was most usually incorrect” by bending his head and body forward.
B2. Data Analysis of Feminism Value
In the early 19th century, feminist movement demanded in the law, economic and social field. They considered the political right was not needed.29 In the story of Anna and The King, it is shown that there were no females in charge in the government; all political positions were taken by males.
There was a case when Anna for her very first time came and saw the prime minister. She was welcomed and got interviewed with several personal questions. Yet along the interview she was always called by the man title “sir”, and by all means Anna criticized this kingdom behavior. Anna got the explanation even though she seemingly could not accept it.
It was clarified that women do not stand in the presence of his Excellency or in other words who usually deserved meeting the government officials were men only. Even if the visitor was a female, she should be treated as a male. It means, only men who deserved the political rights. (See Picture-Analysis 1).
29
Picture-Analysis 1
This dialogue tells a clarification why women do not stand in the presence of his Excellency or in other words who usually deserved meeting the government officials were men only
Adjutant : Mem Leonowens, Kaw Rub. ( introduce Anna to Kaw Rub )
Mrs. Leonowens, His Excellency, Chao Phya Kralahome, the prime minister of Siam. ( introduce Kaw Rub to Anna )
Kaw Rub : Have you any friends in Bangkok, sir? Anna : No. I know no one here.
Kaw Rub : Sir is married? Anna : A widow.
Can you please explain to me why you call me sir? Kaw Rub : Women do not stand in the presence of His
Excellency. How long are you in possession of dead husband?
Anna : 23 months. Kaw Rub : How did he die?
Anna : Please convey to His Excellency that my purpose here is as tutor to the king's son and it is not necessary to ask personal questions. Please.
Kaw Rub : In Siam, sir, it is custom to first ask questions of personal nature to be polite.
group of people was trying to carry out a coup d’etat by killing innocent citizens who were standing loyally in the side of the King Mongkut, supporting his existence as the chosen king of Siam.
As a matter of fact, this was a political strategy, made by one of generals who adored to Taksin leadership, to fall the king down. Somehow it made the king wonder who was actually behind this tragedy; his men suspected French Indo-china that meant to colonize Siam. Here the king wisely thought that no way he could win the war against that nation in the battlefield. So, considering that situation, he decided to make a government to government consolidation with the powerful nation at the time, England.
He asked Anna a favor to mediate this meeting by preparing a British style party in order to respect that prospective ally. Anna not only was asked to prepare that formal occasion well but also was indirectly asked to help the king to deliver the imperative message asking England to become one of Siam’s friendly allies.
King Mongkut : I have decide to give self anniversary dinner and invite important Englih nobles and diplomats. Anna : I don’t understand.
King Mongkut : French Indochina grows stronger and more aggressive. But if I improve our foreign intercourse with your queen’s special envoy ,French will think three times before trying to undermine Siam.
Anna : That’s very clever your , Your Majesty.
King Mongkut : As if to sound English Bougles in own defense. You shall take charge of all formalities as mem is obvious choice to make certain guests feel at home.
In economic issue, feminist demanded property rights. Before marriage, the property belongs to their husband. After getting married, it automatically becomes the property of their wives.30 However it is not either explicitly or implicitly stated about property sharing through the social life of people in this story. Yet, in the case of the royal family, it is obvious that there were no properties but gifts given by the king, as a husband, whether to his wives or his concubines after the marriage. Even if the King had passed away all the properties
30
belonged to him would be handed over to his first son who would replace the king and run the kingdom some day. (See Picture-Analysis 16)
Picture-Analysis 2
Furthermore, most working fields were limited of women. In social life, the demand was to get the same opportunity in education as men.31 In the past men wanted the women to be good housewife who manage household and family. As a result they could only spend their life in domestic. It has been granted that working fields consist of skilled people, and to learn some skill a person must get it either from a formal education or from an informal one.
There is a good case shown in this story. A king, who had a very prospective mission and vision for the continuity and betterment of his kingdom, invited a teacher who was highly expected to be able to give a maximum education for the whole royal family members in order to become his successors who will be taking a part and having crucial positions in the government. The ability of the king and his very important persons in speaking English fluently and in knowing the cultures of other countries proved that they were all well-educated. The educational issue was believed very important in royal kingdom. However, the story did not illustrate at all about formal education in the society level for it did not mention a school or other academic-related things in Siam.
Picture-Analysis 3
31
The following is the quoted dialogue showing that everyone deserved the same opportunity in education, no matter who the person is, whether male or female.
King Mongkut : Dearest family. I desire you all, when of appropriate age, to be educated in English Language, science and literature.
This is necessary and practical gift I give to you and you must never forget to honor your renowned teacher Mem Anna Leonowens.
The next case is about same opportunity education action implemented by Anna in her teaching process. Anna did not intentionally separate where female and male should take a sit in the class. She also delivered the same quality materials to all of her students regardless of their gender status or even social status. Anna showed all students that everybody deserved the education no matter who the person is.
Feminism is an awareness of the gender unfairness, which is felt by women, either in the family or society. 32 In this story there was a feminism issue based on that definition. Awareness toward the gender unfairness was felt by
32
Anna when she found out that Tuptim was sent to the king by her family as a gift to show family’s loyalty and dedication to the king who has been assumed as a god by his people.
This lady was treated as a thing not as someone. Anna could really feel the gender unfairness and equality of human rights on that lady. Nothing this poor beautiful lady could do but crying and trying her best to accept the condition of being inferior and fully controlled. Her lover, Balat who understood this situation as the culture of his nation rather than gender unfairness also tried to accept the situation and led himself to more positive reaction by deciding to become a monk.
Picture-Analysis 4
This monologue implies gender unfairness: describing A beautiful lady was treated more like a thing rather than as precious lovely god’s creature.
The other definition of feminism is the conscious action done by either women or men to change the state of condition.33 This conscious action was also finally done by Tuptim and her lover, Balat. This couple determined to do something crossing the line of the local custom, ready to take serious risks by meeting frequently in the temple even after Tuptim had officially become concubine of the King. Both of them perhaps did not realize that the action they made was an effort to change the state of condition of gender unfairness. What the couple felt was merely trying to get their right back by having their true love.
Anna herself, in this story, did several actions which were so feminism-oriented like supporting Tuptim when she was accused guilty and was to be executed; Anna demanded the king to consider over the decision of the court and to accept the petition.
Picture-Analysis 5
Anna : Stop it!
Do you hear me?1 Don’t you dare lay another hand on that woman! She has done nothing but to try and find happiness! I will go the King. He will put an end to this savagery!
33
A monologue presented above shows the earnest action did by Anna to defend the couple her best. She attended the court and tried to stop the trial. She dared to face and deal with the local authority consciously. On the name of feminism, what she did really needed a very great valor. She was not afraid and did not hesitate to yell before the court using the great name of the king and said that He will put an end to this savagery!
In another feminism action, Anna also helped a female slave to get her freedom, and succeeded. Long time ago, in Siam like almost in many other countries in Middle East, West, North and so on, people could buy people. Slavery was something normal. That was why each government had its own rule about slavery. However time flies, every country has been heading to better governance.
Picture-Analysis 5
Anna : She has been chained outside for six weeks. All because she tried to buy her freedom.
Kaw Rub : Mem Leonowens, Jao Jom Manda Ung is daughter of very influential family.
Anna : Yes. And when La Or offered her the money, she took it. Her mistress took it. The she accused her of ingratitude and chained her like an animal where the prince and I found her.
Kaw Rub : Their to throne must never be involved in issue of bondservant . It will resolve it self in time.
The next day, Anna came to see Jao Jum Manda Ung’ at her house to buy freedom for La Ore by giving Anna’s ring. They both agreed with consequences until Manda Ung realized that she had been tricked to release that slave. Once she knew the real purpose of that ring, Manda Ung reported to the King. It is shown in the following dialogue:
J.J. Manda Ung : She tricked me! She broke into my home, set my servant free, then come to me with an offer to buy her and made payment!
La-Ore purchased her freedom once
she would have taken it and continued to hold La-Ore captive.
King Mongkut : King's commitment to noble families must not be compromised.
Anna : In your letter confirming my employment, you said you wanted Siam to take its place among the nations of the modern world. You spoke of building something greater than yourself. A country where no man is above the law. Which is why I chose to come here.
Anna : Schoolteacher has outstanding memory.
J.J. Manda Ung : I wanted my slave returned and punishment of this insolent English who dares stand before the Lord of life !
King Mongkut : Kralahome...If you would please honor Jao Jom Manda Ung with an explanation of the law. Kaw Rub : Regretfully, I must inform you that
bond-servants have the right by law to buy their own freedom.
J.J. Manda Ung : That would be most unfortunate, my august mistress and what if every slave in my service should bring me the price of their freedom ?
What Anna did to that slave perhaps only affected a few persons including the slave herself. Still it could not change the local rules and custom about slavery in national level. Somehow in a few years after, under the leadership of King Chulalongkorn, Siam became slave-free. It did not stop there, thanking to the vision of his father, King Mongkut, and the teaching of Anna Leonowens, King Chulanlongkorn not only abolished slavery, but also maintained Siam’s independence, instituted religious freedom, and reformed the judicial system.
The progressive changing happened due to the wise action that Anna did to Chulalongkorn by giving a deeply meaningful book “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”34.
34
The book tells about an American woman - Harriet Beecher Stowe - who asked why there should be slavery in America. The book that Anna gave was really inspiring to him and made him a good leader for Siam.
Chulalongkorn : I have been doing much thinking, mem teacher, on
why some in this life are masters, like Jao Jom Manda Ung, and others slaves.
Anna : That is something you need to ask your father, Your
Highness.
Chulalongkorn : But you are teacher. Teach…!
Anna : This American woman Harriet Beecher Stowe
-asked the same question. Perhaps you should read her and then we might continue our discussion.
Chulalongkorn : A woman?
Anna : Yes
Chulalongkorn : Uncle Tom's Cabin. ( He reads the title of the book )I shall read it at once, mem.
excellent carrier, that change will become a disaster towards women themselves. They will suffer both physically and mentally, because of too much equality.35
Their argumentation brought up to this matter is that the path which is actually wanted by women to become a housewife or a wife who just stays at home and just becomes a proud mother. As a matter of fact, it is not a matter of being suffered, yet it is a matter of having been comfortable with their current condition.
The example described in this story is played by all King’s wives and concubines Tuptim who seemed to be comfortable with their condition so far. Once, the first lady, Thiang, was also trying to make sure that Tuptim could accept her condition of being one of king’s concubines. The lady implied that everything would simply run well both physically and mentally if she could follow the royal rules and act normally like the other king’s wives and concubines.
Picture-Analysis 6
35
Here in the monologue, the first lady, Thiang, was also trying to make sure that Tuptim could accept her condition of being one of king’s concubines. The lady implied that everything would simply run well both physically and mentally if she could follow the royal rules.
Lady Thiang : You’re trembling.
Do not fear, blessed one. His Majesty is a kind and generous lover
On the other side, Anna was often fighting for equality and fairness before the king and it seemed that she suffered for that, which actually not looked like that. As a woman, she loved it and was satisfied of having able to struggle for her dignity and respect.
According to the feminist, the traditional values become the basic cause of the inferiority or the subordinate position for women. Traditional values, such as in Victorian era, propose to all women for only be good wives and only live in private and domestic sphere to take care the household, and to be passive and dependent on men. They ought not to be active in public sphere.36 It means that women are confined by many rules in household and societies. Those are being inhibited by women to be their identity. Feminist believes that when women profess the traditional thought she becomes dependent individual. Usually she depends on men: father, brother, or husband.
36
CHAPTER IV
CONCLUSION AND SUGGESTION
A. Conclusion
Answering the research questions, the writer has found seventeen characterizations in the main character Anna Leonowens, and six
feminism values presented in the film Anna and The King.
In character analysis, the writer refers to a theory stated by Singleton and Millet for it is more well-defined. The 17 characterizations that the writer analyzed tell that Anna was a beautiful young woman always dressed in western gown and she was well educated teacher. She was only a widow with one son, two Indian assistants, and a few stuffs she had after her husband passed away. Her existence was highly respected because she was a teacher from England and was invited personally by the king of Siam. To this wise and disciplined lady, teaching is her labor of love. She also has a very wonderful attitude and behavior including brave, a person with principles, logical, dynamic and progressive, initiative and creative.
Next, in the feminism analysis, there six values found. The writer refers to the most well-defined one stated by Jane Fredman who talked about feminism values classified into three major points i.e. first) law: political right; no females in charge in the government; all political
positions were taken by males. However, Anna proved that female also has the competency to take part in governance, second) economic issue: property right; it is not either explicitly or implicitly stated about property sharing through the social life of people in this story. Yet, the story describes a little bit about property right issue in the king family and Anna, and third) social field: educations right; there are two relevant cases analyzed about equal opportunity in education. An action did by the King and the one implemented by Anna.
B. Suggestion
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Asmaeni, Azis. Feminism Profetik, Yogyakarta: Kreasi Wacana Yogyakarta, 2007.
Beauvoir, Simone de and Parshley, H. M. The Second Sex, London: Vintage, 1997.
Edgan, Roberts. Writing Themes About Literature, New Jersey: Prentice Hall Incorporated, 1977.
Fakih, Mansoar. Analisis Gender dan Transformation Sosial, Yogyakarta: Pustaka Pelajar, 2004.
Faludi, Susan. Backlash: The Undeclared War Against Women, London: Vintage, 1992.
Fox, Margalit, Friedan and Friedan Betty. Who Ignited Cause in Feminie Mystique, New York, 2006.
Freedman, Estelle B. No Turning Back: The History of Feminism and The Future of Women, Ballantine Books, 2003.
Freedman, Jame. Concept in The Social Science Feminism, Buckingham: Open University Press. 2006.
HHttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/film, retrieved October 2, 2009.
HHttp://www.feministsforlife.org. retrieved October 2, 2009.
Http//www.edu/literature/Peterson, asp. Retrieved September, 15. 2009
Joseph M. Boggs,and Dennis W. Petrie. The Art of Watching Films Fifth Edition, London: Mayfield Pubhlising Company, 2000.
Leslie, Heywood, Drake, Jennifer. Third Wave Agenda: Being Feminist Doing Feminism, Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1997.
Mitcam, Carl. Encylopedia of Science Technology and Ethics, New York: Thomson Gale. 2006.
Nossbaum, Martha C. Women and Human Development The Capabilities Approach, United State: Cambridge University Press, 2000.
Philips, Melanie. The Ascen of Woman: A History of The Suffragette Movement and The Ideas Behind It, London: Abacus, 2004.
Pilcher, Jane, and Imelda, Whelehan. Fifty key Concepts in Gender Studies, London: Sage Pubhlication, 2004.
Putnam Tong, Rosemarie , Feminist Thought, Colorado:Westview Press, 1998 Ralp. H. Singleton, Stanton Millet. An Introduction to Literatur, New York: The
World Pubhlising Compani, 1966.
Richard, Gill. Mastering Engkish Literature, London: Macmillan, 1995.
Whelehan, Imelda. Modern Feminism Thought: From The Second Wave to Post Feminism, Edin Burgh: Edin Burgh University Press, 1995.
APPENDICES
Summary of Anna and The King Film
The film begins by following the story of Anna Leonowens and Rama IV as it is usually told. Anna is a widow who has come to Siam with her son Louis to teach English to the 68 royal children. She is a strong-willed, intelligent woman and this pleases the King, who wants to modernize his country to keep it safe from the threat of colonialism, while protecting many of the ancient traditions that give Siam its unique identity.
Anna is enchanted by the royal children, particularly Princess Fa-ying (Melissa Campbell). The little girl identifies with the spirit of the playful monkeys who live in the trees of the royal garden. When she suddenly takes ill of cholera, Anna is summoned to her chambers to say goodbye. She gets there just as Fa-ying dies in Mongkut's hands, and the two mourn together. Sometime later, when the King finds that one of the monkeys has "borrowed" his glasses, as his daughter used to do, he is comforted by his belief in reincarnation and the idea that Fa-ying may be reborn as one of her beloved animals.
Lady Tuptim (Bai Ling), the King's new favorite concubine, was already engaged when brought to the court. The King is kind to her, but she's too unhappy and at last runs away, disguising herself as a young man and joining the monastery where her former fiancé, Khun Phra Balat, lives. She is tracked down and brought back to the palace, imprisoned, and initially caned along with her Balat. Although the King intended to mitigate the severity of the final charges, Anna, in front of the entire court, insists that the King be merciful, severely limiting the King's ability to sanction a lesser punishment out of political and cultural concern that it would appear as though he had been lenient because of Anna's insistence; Tuptim and Balat are beheaded in front of the entire court, despite the well held belief that the sentence is monstrously unfair.
The political aspects of the story are completely fictional: Siam is under siege from what appears to be a British-funded coup d'état against King Mongkut, using Burmese soldiers. Mongkut sends out his brother Prince Chaofa and his military advisor General Alak to investigate.
However, it turns out that Alak is the man behind the coup and he turns on and kills Chaofa. He then flees Siam into Burma where he summons and readies his troops to invade Siam and kill the King and his children.
to the bridge with only two soldiers. Alak, in front of his army, confronts the King on the bridge.
Anna and Louis then orchestrate a brilliant deception from their hiding spot in the forest: Louis uses his horn to replicate the sound of a bugle charge, as Anna "attacks" the area with harmless fireworks. The ploy works as the Burmese, believing the King has brought British soldiers, retreat in a panic. Alak attempts to recall them, screaming "it's a trick", but his efforts prove to be futile. Alak stands alone, but the King refuses to kill him, saying that Alak should have to live with his shame. As the King turns to ride back to Siam, Alak picks up a gun and aims at the King, but the explosives are detonated, blowing the bridge to pieces, and Alak along with it.
At the end of the movie, the King has one last dance with Anna, and realizes that it is conceivable for one man to be pleased by only one woman. Anna returns to England with Louis. After King Mongkut passed away and replaced his son prince Chulalongkorn, he finally took charge of the country and become Siam’s most progressive king. Leonowens and her western ideas particularly influenced him in guiding the country’s transformation from a feudal state to a modern society.
Anna and The King
Directed by • Andy Tennant
Produced by • Lawrence Bender
• Ed Elbert
Written by
• Steve Meerson
• Peter Krikes
Starring
• Chow Yun-Fat
• Jodie Foster
• Bai Ling
• Tom Felton
Distributed by • 20th Century Fox
Release date(s) • December 17, 1999
Running time • 148 minutes
Language • English/Thai/French
Budget • $75 million
•
Cast
Actor Role
Jodie Foster Anna Leonowens
Yun-Fat Chow King Mongkut
Bai Ling Tuptim
Tom Felton Louis Leonowens
Randall Duk Kim General Alak
Kay Siu Lim Prince Chaofa, King Mongkut's Brother
Melissa Campbell Princess Fa-Ying
Keith Chin Prince Chulalongkorn
Mano Maniam Moonshee, Leonowens' Indian Servant
Shanthini Venugopal Beebe, Leonowens' Indian Servant
Deanna Yusoff Queen Thiang, Head Wife
Geoffrey Palmer Lord John Bradley
Anne Firbank Lady Bradley
Alif Silpachai Chulalongkorn's brother
Bill Stewart Mycroft Kincaid, East India Trading Co.
