THEME The Heart of the Matter

TYPES OF THEMES A central message an author is trying to communicate Racism is destructive to both the victim and the perpetrator A broad idea addressed in a piece of literature War; dreams; friendship; sacrifice; etc A broad conflict addressed in a piece of literature Person vs. Person Person vs. Nature Person vs. Society First definition is the one we will use!!!

Two Parts to Every Theme A topic (called a thematic topic) The author’s thoughts on that topic: Topic: racism Thoughts on the idea: bad for both the victim and the perpetrator Theme: Racism is destructive to both the victim and the perpetrator.

Other elements to consider with theme: No CD in the statement of the theme State themes in a broad, universal way It should apply to all people everywhere—NOT just to the people in the story: BAD: George and Lennie’s friendship allows them to find meaning in a difficult world GOOD: Friendship helps people to cope with the difficult challenges in life

Other elements to consider with theme: Avoid cliché when stating theme: BAD: Think before you act BAD: Look before you leap Good: To avoid tragedy, one must carefully consider options before choosing a rational response **Cliché: old, tired, overused expressions which have lost their impact

Apply to Of Mice and Men Develop a statement of theme for each of these thematic topics: Power Dreams Loneliness Friendship Injustice