Analysis of Main Character’s Conflicts in TV Series Dexter Season 1 (2006)

Abstract

This thesis analyzes the main character’s internal and external conflicts in the TV series Dexter Season 1 (2006). The theoretical framework applied in this study is Edgar V. Roberts’ theory of characterization and Laurence Perrine’s conflict theory. The researcher uses a descriptive qualitative method by analyzing scenes, dialogues, and monologues in the series. The primary data source is the first season of the Dexter TV series, with secondary data drawn from literary theory and previous conflict analysis studies. The findings show that Dexter Morgan, as the main character, experiences complex internal conflict (man vs. self) driven by emotional detachment, traumatic past, and dual identity as a forensic analyst and serial killer. He also faces external conflicts (man vs. man, man vs. society, and man vs. fate) that shape his character as a morally ambiguous vigilante. This thesis concludes that internal and external conflicts play a crucial role in building Dexter’s psychological depth and advancing the narrative.