Themes Thematic Statements ENGLISH 10 What is a

Themes & Thematic Statements ENGLISH 10

What is a theme? • The main idea or underlying meaning of a literary work. • A universal truth. • Usually not directly stated. • Most stories, plays, novels, and poems have more than one theme. • Some works, like mysteries, might be intended primarily for entertainment and not have a clear theme. • A theme is what makes literature compelling and significant to readers

What is NOT a theme? • A theme is NOT a moral • A moral claims an opinion about theme • A moral can be directly stated • Examples of morals: 1. Slow and steady wins the race. 2. Be happy with what you have. 3. Think twice before you act. MORAL

What is NOT a theme? • A theme is NOT one word (we call that a “thematic idea”) o Example: Love • A theme is NOT a definition o Example: Love is when you have feelings for someone. • A theme is NOT specifically about one person or one character o Julius Caesar was ambitious and had to die for it.

Thematic Ideas • 1 -2 word labels or topics • We can brainstorm thematic ideas to help us state theme Let’s come up with some examples on the board…

Thematic Statements • A thematic statement is a complete sentence that express a theme. • The most important formula EVER: topic + insight = theme o Example Topic – cruelty Insight – humans are capable of limitless cruelty. • Let’s make this topic + insight into a thematic statement about Night!

Some good examples… Topic: Love Theme: Unconditional love withstands any obstacle. Topic: Hope Theme: Hope can help a person to survive any dark time. Topic: Courage Theme: It is important to have courage to express your individuality. Topic: Jealousy Theme: Jealousy can cause lasting damage to individuals and relationships.

What is the purpose of a theme? • To teach us something! • To challenge an existing view