Theme

Theme

What is Theme?Central idea or underlying message of the textRarely stated in the textMust make an inferenceUse the plot, character, and/or setting

Do not confuse Theme with topic, main idea, or plot!Theme is the message we take away from the written piece about people, life, and the world around us.

Topic is the main idea of the story.

Plot includes the events in the story.

Universal ThemeAbout life and/or human nature

Common to people throughout the world

Provides guidance through life

How do I find the theme?Often the title gives us hint about theme.Remember , theme addresses the entire piece of writing

We can state theme in many waysEach of us has prior experiencesWe are each unique

Identifying ThemeTheme is not the topic, but a lesson you can apply to your lifeFor example: familyYou should always put your family before your friends

Identifying ThemeYou can determine the theme by examining how the character has changedA dynamic character develops throughout the storyWhat did this character learn through his experiences

Identifying ThemeConflict can help determine the theme

Conflict Resolution Theme

Helping to feed the poor is beneficial to all involved.

Is a theme always valid?Evaluate the writers ideas

Is the theme realistic? Then it is valid.If you put your best foot forward, you will usually succeed.

Is the theme idealistic? Then it is not validGood people never have any problems.