Multiple Intelligences Analysis in George Bamber’s Return to Dust

Abstract

Multiple intelligences theory offers a framework to understand diverse cognitive abilities beyond traditional IQ. This study aims to explore the multiple intelligences of the main character, James Howard, in George Bamber's radio drama Return to Dust, using Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences theory. Employing a qualitative descriptive research design, the study transcribed and classified the character's monologues and dialogues to identify instances of linguistic, mathematic, spatial, kinesthetic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal intelligences. The findings indicate that linguistic and intrapersonal intelligences are the most dominant, each accounting for 25% of the observed intelligences. Spatial and interpersonal intelligences each represent 15%, while mathematic and kinesthetic intelligence accounts for 10%. Naturalistic and musical intelligences were not found in this audio drama. This study shows that the main character uses linguistic intelligence through vivid figurative language, mathematic intelligence through rational thinking, and spatial and kinesthetic intelligence in dealing with physical changes. Interpersonal intelligence is seen from his interactions with other characters, while intrapersonal intelligence is reflected through self-awareness and emotional reflection. This study confirms drama as a medium that depicts diverse cognitive and emotional abilities, expanding the understanding of intelligence in literature