Abstract
Spiritual Intelligence can be metaphorically compared to the framework of human awareness, which oversees creating meaning and developing moral character. Research has been done applying Spiritual Intelligence to different areas such as leadership, emotional intelligence, consumer attitudes, educational contexts, workplaces and human resource development, psychological well-being, and religious beliefs. However, there is a research gap in applying Spiritual Intelligence to fictional characters. This study applies the concept of Spiritual Intelligence to fictional characters of Hermann Hesse. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for his inspired writings which, while growing in boldness and penetration, exemplify the classical humanitarian ideals and high qualities of style. Hesse’s protagonists are restless and on the way to their self-realisation. Conflicts with the family and its pietistic environment, with the school, with the world of the middle class, and with society at large are centred on all of Hesse’s protagonists. The triadic movements of these characters have captured the special attention of youth. Much research has happened by applying Spiritual Intelligence to different areas such as management, leadership, educational contexts, economic and organizational contexts, and mental well-being. However, research has yet to be done applying Spiritual Intelligence to fictional narratives. Using the four-factor definition of David Brian King, this descriptive-analytical method study interrogates how far the protagonists’ triadic movements: Intra, inter, and spatial, contribute to their Spiritual Intelligence development.
Keywords: Four-factor definition, Hermann hesse, Spiritual intelligence, Triadic movements.