Theme An Introduction to finding theme Theme v

Theme An Introduction to finding theme.

Theme: v. The story’s main idea. v. The message the writer wants to communicate by telling the story. v. Theme is about life or human nature. v. Theme is not stated directly but must be inferred. v. The central idea of a story.

Types of theme v Implied themes must be inferred by considering all the elements of a story and asking what message about life is conveyed. v Stated themes are directly presented in a story. And is easily defined.

For example: The theme of “Cinderella” is implied. The reader can infer the message that if you are in a bad situation, you should do the best that you can. In the end, things will work out for you.

Theme can be revealed by: v. The ways the characters change v. A story’s title. and the lesson they v. Key phrases and learn about life. statements about big ideas.

Theme and topic matchup: Courage Revenge Jealousy 1 -Be careful how you treat other people; Dreams 1 -______ They may treat you the same. 2 -Face your fear and you can defeat them. 2 -_____ 3 -Do not wish for what others posses. Be 3 -______ happy with what you have. 4 -Work for what you want in life and you can achieve any goal. 4 -______

Creating thematic statements (not topic): v Example: Courage allows people to attempt difficult tasks in their lives, even when the possibility of failure is very high. v. Let’s break it down.

Break Down: • Courage • Topic • Allows people to attempt difficult tasks in their lives. • What about the topic? • Even when the possibility of failure is very high. • Ends with a subordinate clause. It strengthens the statement by clarifying it.

Themes are Usually about Big ideas: For example: Freedom Friendship Trust Good vs. evil Poverty Education Life Law Bravery And much, much more

Valuable points: v. Theme is not the topic. v. Short stories tend v. Theme is the point to have only one being made about theme or message. topic. Novels have many v. Theme is statement lessons or messages. about life. v. A good theme teach valuable lesson about life.

What was the TOPIC of “The Most Dangerous Game? ” Now, what was the author trying to tell the reader about that topic?

v. Let’s practice finding the theme of some works. v. It’s easier to practice with smaller pieces that are easier to read.