Comparing Themes

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Only write the definitions word-for-word.
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 Definition of Theme
• theme:
– a central idea or insight about life and human
nature that gives a story meaning
– examples:
• Racial stereotypes blind reality.
• A boy and a girl must go through a special trial or series
of trials before maturing.
 Characteristics of Theme
• theme
– gives meaning to characters and events
– reveals the author’s attitude about how people do and
should behave
– what the author means—not what he/she writes

“I don’t get it!” whined the student.

“Read between the lines,” replied the teacher.
 Theme is Found in Most Genres
• genre:
– a category that a work of literature is classified under
• think of the sections at Blockbuster
– five major genres in literature:
• non-fiction
• fiction
• poetry
• drama
• myth
 Themes are Generalizations
• generalization:
– a broad statement that applies to or covers many
individuals, experiences, situations,
observations, or tests
– example:
• People want to be accepted.
 Some Themes are Universal
• universal themes:
– themes commonly found in the literature of all
cultures and ages
– examples:
• Love will endure and triumph over evil.
• Arrogance and pride can bring destruction.
• Heroes must overcome challenges before
they can claim victory.
 End the Confusion
• theme is not:
– a summary of the plot
– only about one person or type of people
– a subject:
• the topic, which can be stated as a single word
– a moral:
• a rule about how to behave
– Slow and steady wins the race.
 How to Find A Story’s Theme

Think!
• How does the protagonist change?
• How is the conflict resolved?
• Does the title have any special meaning?
• What message is being given by the entire story?
 How to Write A Story’s Theme

Write one sentence.

• Check that it applies to the entire story.
• Check that it applies to life and human nature.
• Rewrite it if it is a moral or cliché.
• Be prepared to give support for the theme.
 The End

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Based on:
“Theme: An Idea About Life” by John Legget
Holt Literature and Language Arts - Third Course