Chapter 3

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the discussion of research method. Research locale, research

respondents, research instruments, data gathering procedure and statistical tools.

Research Design

This study uses descriptive-correlation method. This method is according to ( Fraenkel,

2003 ) determines the relationship among two or more variables and seeks to investigate the

extent to which one or more relationship of type exists.

Tradition of Inquiry and Data-Generation Method

The literary works were analyzed by taking into account the principles of existentialism

as these are manifested in The Old Man and the Sea, “The Old Man at the Bridge”, and “A

Clean, Well-Lighted Place”.

The passages were lifted from the stories based on the existential essences of freedom,

choice, and responsibility, proposed by Sartre and Kierkegaard. The literary/rhetorical devices

which elicited those essences were found to be figures of speech, imagery, and symbols.

A sample analysis of a passage from The Old Man and the Sea follows.

Passage Essence of Meaning

Existentialism

“God help me to have the cramp go,” Choice Santiago is

he said. persistent to
to catch the fish that
“Because I don’t know what the fish is will be his trophy
going to do.” when he comes
home—a proof of his
... “But he stays down forever. being not unlucky.
Then I will stay down with him
forever.
 The passage above reflects the essence of choice as it denotes existential essence that

emphasizes action, freedom, and decision as fundamental. The only way to rise above the

essentially absurd condition of humanity (which is characterized by suffering and inevitable

death) is by exercising one’s personal freedom and choice (Mastin, 2008). Santiago’s

determination, despite the obstacle of his left hand refusing to uncramp at the time he needs it

most, is the mark of true valor. He chooses to stay with the great fish whatever the cost may

be.

Sources of Data

The study…

Ethical Consideration

Prior to the conduct of this study, the researcher...