CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS: DISCRIMINATION ISSUE IN THE SHORT

STORY “YEAR OF THE MONKEY” BY TYLER ASHTON

This assignment is prepared to fulfill the final assignment:

Subject : Reading IV
Lecturer : Yuniar Fatmasari, S.S., M.A

Compiled by:

Noviana Ashshiyamul Itsnaini 40121037

ENGLISH EDUCATION STUDY PROGRAM

EDUCATIONAL SCIENCES AND TEACHERS TRAINING FACULTY
PERADABAN UNIVERSITY
2023/2024
I. Introduction

A. Contextual Analysis

Studying what characters experience through the language or sentences

presented in a story is very interesting to do. This can be done through a
contextual analysis approach. Based on (Hikmah et al., 2023) : 100), contextual
discourse analysis involves examining both the internal aspects of discourse and
the external factors that shape it, while staying focused on the existing text, with
the context representing elements beyond language. Additionally, (Rakhmawati
et al., (2015: 2) state that the situation and conditions occurring in an event can
be analyzed through contextual discourse analysis. In summary, contextual
analysis can be defined as a method of studying and understanding a text or
discourse by examining both its internal elements, such as language and
structure, and external factors, including the broader context in which the
communication occurs.
Contextual analysis of the short story "Year of the Monkey" by Tyler
Ashton employs prominent theoretical frameworks. The chosen theories are
relevant to the central theme of discrimination within the narrative. The theories
utilized in this article include Cultural Studies.
According to Pickering, (2018: 18), cultural studies stand out for their
emphasis on personal experiences in social relations, examining how individuals
navigate and interpret specific social structures. It highlights the intricate
connections between what's widely accepted in society (public culture) and an
individual's personal experiences and perspectives (private subjectivity).
Cultural Studies in contextual analysis opens up a deeper understanding of how
cultural elements interact in a narrative and how it affects the interpretation and
meaning of reading.
B. Discrimination
Discrimination refers to unfair treatment or neglect of an individual or
group based on certain characteristics such as race, gender, religion, or social

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 status. It encompasses actions that unjustly hinder someone's rights and
opportunities. Fulthoni et al., (2009: 3) reveal that essentially, discrimination is
the differentiation in treatment. This disparate treatment can be due to skin color,
social class, or ethnicity, as well as differences in gender, economic status,
religion, and so forth.
Furthermore, the book “Memahami Diskriminasi” by Fulthoni et al., (2009:
4) explains various types of discrimination that often occur in society including
but are not limited to:
1. Discrimination based on ethnicity, race, and religion/beliefs.
2. Discrimination based on gender and gender roles. For example,
prioritizing access to education for boys, considering women as the
property of their husbands after marriage, and so on.
3. Discrimination against people with disabilities, such as the belief that they
are unfit to work in government institutions.
4. Discrimination against HIV/AIDS patients, leads to their isolation from
society and being viewed as a burden.
5. Discrimination based on social caste, as seen in India where the lowest
caste is considered an outcast, impoverished, or marginalized, resulting in
limited access to basic rights.
C. Short Story “Year of The Monkey”
The story revolves around Secretary Rebecca Sandler, a career politician
who finds herself in a challenging position within the government's Department
of Homo Simian Affairs. Frustrated and feeling humiliated, she contemplates
stepping down due to the ridicule and lack of respect she faces, especially given
the derogatory term "Monkey Department" associated with her work.
The narrative takes a turn when the existence of homo simians, a
genetically modified species created by billionaire Richard Patterson, becomes a
media sensation. These creatures, resembling humans with slight differences,
stir controversy and discrimination. Rebecca, caught in the midst of this chaos,
navigates her responsibilities while facing personal and professional challenges.

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 Amidst the turmoil, Adam, a homo simian, seeks Rebecca's attention with
urgent news. As the story unfolds, it explores themes of discrimination, societal
expectations, and the consequences of scientific experimentation. The
introduction of Adam's pregnant sister, Mary, adds another layer to the
complexities the characters face.
The author, Tyler Ashton skillfully weaves together personal struggles,
political dynamics, and ethical dilemmas, creating a compelling story that
delves into the impact of discrimination on individuals and society at large. The
following are the names of the characters and roles in the short story "Year of
Monkey"
1. Vice President (Jim)
He is the Vice President who speaks with Secretary Rebecca Sandler over
the phone. Jim has a long-standing relationship with Rebecca and tries to
convince her to stay in her position.
2. Secretary Rebecca Sandler
The main character of the story, a career politician serving as the Secretary
in the cabinet. She feels trapped in the Department of Homo Simian
Affairs and experiences significant frustration and pressure.
3. Richard Patterson
An eccentric billionaire who created Homo Simians, causing significant
issues in the story. Though deceased, his actions have profound
consequences for Rebecca and Homo Simians.
4. Adam
A Homo Simian who was the only human to show love and compassion
to Homo Simians. He plays a central role in the story, planning the escape
of Homo Simians and seeking normalcy.
5. Mary
Adam's younger sister who enters Rebecca's office with a pregnancy that
creates a major surprise. She represents the consequences of the Homo
Simians experiment.

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 Short story “Year of The Monkey” by Tyler Ashton explores the conflicts
and pressures faced by Rebecca Sandler, as well as the impact of the genetic
experiment conducted by Richard Patterson. Adam and Mary represent Homo
Simians as a result of this experiment, adding dramatic and moral dimensions to
the narrative. Furthermore, the short story explores the pervasive issue of
discrimination through the lens of Homo Simian Affairs, where Secretary
Rebecca Sandler grapples with societal prejudices and challenges in managing
the controversial creation of Homo simians.
By employing contextual analysis, the writer feels interested in analyzing
the issue of discrimination in the short story contextually. The writer hopes that
readers can better understand the complexity of the social problems faced by the
characters in the story. By understanding the context and background, it is
hoped that readers can develop deeper empathy for the discriminatory
experiences experienced by these characters.
II. Discussion
Discrimination is a prevalent theme throughout the story, particularly
evident in the treatment of homo simians and Secretary Rebecca Sandler. Here
are specific instances that highlight discrimination:
A. Derogatory Term Usage:
Based on Cambridge Dictionary, Derogatory means showing strong
disapproval and not showing respect. Derogatory Term can be said a word or
expression that conveys a disrespectful, offensive, or negative attitude towards a
particular individual or group. Using such language can be hurtful and
perpetuate discrimination.
In the short story "Year of Monkey" by Tyler Ashton, Secretary Sandler
does discrimination through the use of the derogatory term "Monkey
Department" for the Department of Homo Simian Affairs. This term not only
belittles her work but also contributes to the overall negative perception of the
homo simians.
The following is an excerpt from the dialogue between the vice president and
Rebecca Sandler on the telephone.

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 “I can't sit here and watch my career die in the Monkey Department.”
She used the derisive name for The Department of Homo Simian
Affairs to get a reaction.

This sentence, particularly the phrase "Monkey Department," is a

derogatory statement. The sentence conveys a demeaning impression,
specifically referring to the position related to Homo Simians.
B. Public Uproar
The uproar caused by the presence of homo simians in society underscores
the discriminatory attitudes. The media sensationalizes their existence,
portraying them in tabloid magazines with inaccurate and mocking stories. This
contributes to the dehumanization and stereotyping of the homo simians.

“To say they caused an uproar is comically underselling it. This was
one of the biggest stories in the history of media.”

It highlights the significant attention and controversy surrounding the existence

of Homo Simians and the reactions from the public and media.

“The stories and pictures in the tabloid magazines have gotten sillier
by the day.”
It could indicate that the reporting in tabloids tends to contain sensational
elements and may portray Homo Simians in a demeaning or unserious manner,
possibly neglecting the seriousness of their existence.
C. Isolation and Hostility
Isolation in discrimination context occurs when individuals or groups are
deliberately separated or detached from social interactions or a specific
environment based on their characteristics, beliefs, or background. Meanwhile,
Warsame et al., (2023: 3) deliver that hostility is the condition of displaying an
unfriendly, aggressive, or antagonistic attitude toward someone or something.
Hostility can emerge due to various reasons, such as personal disagreements,
ideological distinctions, cultural or social gaps, or the perception of threats to
one's values, interests, or identity.

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 Homo simians, including Adam, experience outright hostility from society.
Death threats, societal rejection, and the inability to lead a normal life
demonstrate the deep-seated discrimination they face merely for being different.

"He didn't ask to be created in a test tube. He didn't ask for the same
scorn and the same contempt for just existing."

“They knew they would never be treated the same as everyone else,
because they were different.”

“But was it too much to ask for people to not be outright hostile to
them for just walking down the street? Was it too much to ask for the
death threats to stop? Was it too much to ask to be able to have a job
and be a member of society?”
The quote conveys the emotional toll of societal disdain and the desire for
normalcy despite facing outright hostility, death threats, and discrimination. On
the other hand Brandt et al., (2022: 6) state that not only is social isolation
linked to emotional symptoms and suicidal behavior, but it also appears to be
associated with an elevated risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
D. Social Rejection
Social rejection takes place when someone is intentionally left out from a
social connection or interaction. According to psychologists, social rejection is
caused by several things. These are individual difference, mismatch with group
norms, non-compliance with group expectation, intolerance to difference,
treatment or bullying, and discomfort with social differences (Mukherjee, 2022).
Social rejection as a form of discrimination against Homo Simians in the
short story "Year of Monkey" is caused by individual differences and
discomfort with social differences. In this case, it is the majority community
who feel uncomfortable with the existence of Homo Simians as a genetic
minority species.
Adam's internal conflict and desire for a normal life highlight the personal
toll of discrimination. His longing for acceptance and the ceaseless hostility he
faces serve as poignant examples of the impact discrimination can have on an
individual's well-being.

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 “As Adam sat in the waiting room, waiting for Rebecca Sandler to see
him, he was also thinking back to Richard Patterson. Richard
Patterson had been the only human to show Adam and his siblings
love and compassion. They were jokingly and mockingly called
'Patterson's bastards' but that undersold how much of a father
Richard had been to them. They were his creation and he cared for
them like a father should.”

“All he wanted was a sense of normalcy and to be left alone. Society

couldn't even begin to do that, let alone accept him and his brothers
and sisters.”

“Some day he hoped he could have a normal life where he didn't have
to feel like he was an abomination.”

This passage reveals the deep emotional impact of discrimination on

Adam and his siblings, emphasizing the longing for acceptance, normalcy, and
the struggle to overcome societal hostility. The derogatory nickname and the
societal rejection portrayed in the story contribute to the personal challenges
faced by homo simians.
E. Societal Prejudices
According to Yusdianti Tenriawali & AR Bassalamah, (2019: 18), they
say that Individuals who hold prejudices generally have little personal
experience with the targeted group. Prejudices tend not to be based on objective
facts but rather on minimal facts that are subjectively interpreted.
Homo Simians experience social prejudice because rejection from society.
They face stigma and negative perceptions that make it challenging for them to
be accepted more fairly and objectively. As beings who are different, they
encounter difficulties in achieving normalcy in life and the desire to be
recognized as part of the community.
Homo Simians faces stigma and negative perceptions from society in the
form of misunderstanding and fear due to their differences. The general public
tends to view them as a threat or something abnormal.
The introduction of Mary, Adam's pregnant sister, adds another layer to
the discrimination theme. The shock and breathlessness that Secretary Sandler

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experiences upon learning about Mary's pregnancy emphasize societal
prejudices against the homo simians.

"Once her coat was removed, it was obvious what the girl had been
hiding. The protruding belly was easily distinguishable, and the shock
of it took Rebecca's breath away. 'Her name is Mary.'"

This part of the story reveals the discrimination faced by homo simians,
particularly Mary, who is pregnant. The shock in Rebecca's reaction implies that
the revelation of a pregnant homo simian challenges societal norms and
prejudices, adding a layer to the already complex issues of acceptance and
discrimination within the narrative.
Based on the short story “Year of Monkey” by Tyler Ashton specifically
Homo Simians experienced discrimination based on species or minority groups,
not racial discrimination. It is because race is commonly connected to biology
and tied to physical attributes like hair texture and skin color (Amy Morin,
2023). Additionally, Fedelina Chávez & Guido-Dibrito, (1999: 40) say that say
Racial identity is a visible representation linked to our physical appearance, but
it carries profound consequences for the way we are treated.
However in the context of “Year of the Monkey,” homo simians are not a
race in the traditional sense. They are a genetically engineered hybrid species
resulting from the combination of human and primate DNA. While they share
some genetic material with humans, they are a distinct and artificially created
group rather than a naturally evolved race.
They are faced with social rejection, unfriendly treatment, and isolation
due to their different existence and characteristics as a result of genetic
experiments.
In the context of "Year of the Monkey," homo simians are not a race in the
traditional sense. They are a genetically engineered hybrid species resulting
from the combination of human and primate DNA. While they share some
genetic material with humans, they are a distinct and artificially created group
rather than a naturally evolved race.

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 On the other hand, the short story "Year of Monkey" by Tyler Ashton is
closely related to Cultural Studies theory in the context of contextual analysis.
Cultural studies theory explores how culture influences and shapes social
structures, and individuals within a society.
Cultural studies often explores how language and representation contribute
to the construction of identities. The derogatory term "Monkey Department" and
the discriminatory language used against homo simians in the narrative
highlight the role of language in perpetuating prejudice.
Cultural studies theory also considers resistance within marginalized
groups. The homo simians, led by characters like Adam, represent resistance
against societal oppression.
III. CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the contextual analysis of the short story "Year of the
Monkey" by Tyler Ashton reveals a profound exploration of discrimination
through the lens of Homo Simian Affairs. “Year of The Monkey” shows the
challenges faced by Secretary Rebecca Sandler, the main character, as she
grapples with the derogatory term "Monkey Department" and societal prejudices
associated with Homo Simians.
The discrimination experienced by Homo Simians, represented by
characters like Adam and Mary, goes beyond mere differences; it delves into the
realms of isolation, hostility, and social rejection. The use of derogatory terms,
public uproar, and societal prejudices contribute to the dehumanization and
stereotyping of Homo Simians, creating a poignant commentary on the
consequences of discrimination.
In essence, "Year of the Monkey" not only serves as a captivating story
but also as a powerful commentary on discrimination, societal expectations, and
the consequences of scientific experimentation. Through contextual analysis,
readers gain a deeper insight into the complexities of the social problems faced
by the characters, fostering empathy and understanding for the discriminatory
experiences portrayed in the narrative
.

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 REFERENCE

Ashton, T. (n.d.). Year Of The Monkey. Https://Www.Eastoftheweb.Com/.

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and discrimination on mental health. In Translational Psychiatry (Vol. 12, Issue 1,
pp. 1–11). Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-022-02178-4

Fedelina Chávez, A., & Guido-Dibrito, F. (1999). Racial and Ethnic Identity and
Development. NEW DIRECTIONS FOR ADULT AND CONTINUING
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Fulthoni, Arianingtyas, R., Aminah, S., & Sihombing, U. P. (2009). MEMAHAMI

DISKRIMINASI (M. Yasin, Ed.). The Indonesian Legal Resource Center (ILRC).
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Linguistik Dan Sastra Tahun 2013, 100–107.

Mukherjee, C. (2022, September 22). Why Social Rejection is Arduous and Bitter?
Https://Thepleasantmind.Com/.

Pickering, M. (2008). Research methods for cultural studies (M. Pickering, Ed.).
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Warsame, F. W., Schneider, H. J., & Zhang, F. M. (2023). Hostility in the Workplace
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