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Understanding Theme in Literature: Key Concepts for Pre-IB English II

This guide explores the concept of theme in literature, defining it as the central idea or meaning of a story that organizes plot, characters, and symbols. It differentiates between theme and subject, emphasizing that each story delivers a unique statement about its subjects, such as fate or disillusionment. Readers are encouraged to analyze story titles, details, and character developments to uncover themes. Additionally, strategies for articulating themes in one's own words are provided, ensuring clarity and depth in literary analysis.

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Understanding Theme in Literature: Key Concepts for Pre-IB English II

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Presentation Transcript

  1. A few notes on Theme… English II Pre-IB

  2. What is Theme? • The central idea or meaning of a story • Provides a unifying point around which the plot, characters, setting, point of view, symbols, and other elements of a story are organized

  3. How do I find it? • Distinguish between the theme of a story and its subject. They are not equivalents • Subjects: fate, death, innocence, youth, loneliness, racial prejudice, disillusionment • Each story makes its own statement about the subject and expresses some view of life • Example: The brutal experiences of war can alienate a person from those—even family and friends00who are innocent of war’s reality • Example: No matter how much one might love one’s father, there comes a time when family loyalties must be left behind in order to be true to one’s self.

  4. More strategies… • Pay attention to the title of the story • Often leads to a major symbol or subject around which the theme develops • Look for details in the story • Re-read if necessary • Decide whether the protagonist changes or develops some important insight as a result of the action

  5. More strategies… • When you formulate the theme of the story in your own words write it down in one or two complete sentences that make some point about the subject matter • Revenge vs. Instead of providing satisfaction, revenge defeats the best in one’s self • Be certain your expression of theme is a generalized statement rather than a specific description of particular people, places, and indents in the story • Be wary of using clichés

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