Themes in literature

Miss Brynan

Miss Ewart

What are themes?A theme is an idea of message about

LIFE, SOCIETY, or HUMAN NATURE

In order to uncover themes in literature; we must read between the lines, and look at subtle details or events not spoken about.

Pieces of the puzzle? Questions to ask yourself:

? Could the title give you a preview of the message in which the author is trying to convey?

? What are the character’s needs and desires throughout the story, and how do they change?

More pieces………..? Who does the character interact with and are

there any conflicts? Are there issues with society ? Are there internal issues?

? Pay attention to cues or motifs. What might they represent? {Does the music in the background mean more than just music?}

? Can you connect to the character’s emotions? Can you relate your own life to the character’s life?

The Existence of Social InequalityWhen individuals in a society do not have equal social

status.

To Kill A Mockingbird

Remember the Titans

Define Normal

The Hollowness of the Upper Class

The Great GatsbyWest Egg vs. East Egg

The Notebook

Gossip Girl

Hysteria and ReputationMass hysteria can be defined as a condition

in which a large group of people exhibits similar physical or emotional symptoms, usually stemming from fear or anger. In order for it to be called mass hysteria, the symptoms must be completely pervasive throughout the whole society.

The CrucibleIn the town of Salem everybody wants to

keep a good name. Your name is passed from generation to generation and like everybody else, you want to keep it clean. Many characters in the play base much of their actions on their yearning to protect their respective reputations.

Salem Falls

Hysteria ……

The Isolated Hero

The epic hero illustrates traits, performs deeds, and exemplifies certain morals that are valued by the society from which the epic originates. They usually embody cultural and religious beliefs of the people. Many epic heroes are reoccurring characters in the legends of their native culture. Epic heroes have no superpowers, but are smart, brave, and have fears but overcome them to protect their friends, families, and countries.

Beowulf

Modern day HeroNot a superhero, because those don't exist in real

life.Real heroes usually aren't on the news or in

People magazine. Real heroes don't care about fame, fortune, or a

place in history. Real heroes are just that-real, ordinary people that have an extraordinary effect on the lives of

other people. The motivation of a hero is nothing more than the simple fact that being a hero is the right thing to do

Spiderman