The Formation of Moral Identity In Thomas As The Main Character In The Maze Runner
Abstract
This study examines the construction of moral identity through the main character, Thomas, in the dystopian film The Maze Runner (2014). In a narrative defined by survival and extreme social pressure, the development of a character's ethical framework becomes a central element of the storytelling. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this research meticulously analyzes selected scenes and dialogues to explore the gradual evolution of moral identity as reflected in the character’s critical decisions and altruistic actions. The study applies Augusto Blasi’s theory of moral identity, which emphasizes the integration of moral values into an individual’s self-concept and the consistency between moral judgment and action. The findings reveal that Thomas’s moral identity does not emerge instantaneously but evolves progressively through distinct psychological stages. Initially, Thomas exhibits basic moral awareness sparked by his curiosity about the Glade's restrictive rules. This awareness then matures into empathy and a sense of responsibility toward his peers, particularly when faced with life-threatening situations inside the Maze. The analysis further demonstrates that his identity culminates in a strong moral commitment and leadership, where his self-definition is inseparable from his ethical duty to save others. The study concludes that moral identity is dynamically shaped through lived experiences, the resolution of complex ethical dilemmas, and social interactions within extreme, high-stakes environments. These results suggest that in dystopian narratives, the protagonist's moral growth serves as a critique of dehumanizing systems, highlighting the resilience of human ethics under pressure.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Abdul Bisma, Bahar Bahar, Yulhaidir Yulhaidir
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