Theme Statement Which of the following would be

Theme Statement Which of the following would be good theme statements for Romeo and Juliet? • You shouldn’t ever commit suicide. • People shouldn’t trust other people to carry messages. • Great sacrifices are made in the name of love. • Romeo killed Tybalt in revenge for Mercutio’s death. • Poor decisions are often made impulsively. • Blind loyalty causes foolish behavior. • Montagues and Capulets are stupid people.

v. A theme statement is a main idea in a work of literature. v. Most long works of literature will have many theme statements. v. A theme statement addresses an abstract concept in relation to human nature, such as justice, hope, oppression, or imagination. v. A theme statement must be a complete sentence, not just a word or phrase. v. It must be supported with examples found throughout the text, not just one example. v. It does NOT give advice. v. It does NOT use the word you. v. It does NOT use the words should or ought.

Theme Statements, continued • What is Romeo and Juliet REALLY about? • Don’t think in terms of the plot or sequence of events—think in terms of big ideas or topics that it addresses, such as: -Love -Fate -Conflict -Life & Death -Opposing Worlds -Power -Time -Loyalty -Trust -Anger

To find a theme statement for Romeo and Juliet, take one of the topics and make it into a statement. What is the author trying to say about that topic? For example: topic – conflict Theme statement: Long-term unresolved conflict between families leads to disaster.

• Prove theme statement. Here is where plot comes in. • Use the plot to prove theme statement. • What examples from the play prove theme statement? • Make a list of examples from the plot and quotes from the play to prove theme statement. Examples: a. The street fight between servants of the feuding families in the first scene causes a riot and destruction of property. b. The fight between Mercutio and Tybalt leads to their deaths. c. Romeo’s banishment for killing Tybalt leads to two suicides, a murder, and a heart attack.