Identifying Theme You thought you knew, but you have no idea…

What IS A THEME? A theme is a message or main idea that the writer wants the reader to remember after reading his/her world. 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.

What IS A THEMATIC STATEMENT? A thematic statement is a complete sentence (or two) that expresses a theme. A thematic statement could serve as a thesis in a thematic essay.

WHAT IS A THEME NOT? 1. A theme is not ONE WORD. That is a topic. Bad example 1: The theme was love. NO! 2. A theme is not a definition Bad example2: Love is when you have feelings for someone. NO! 3. A theme is not specifically about one story or character; rather, it is universal. Bad example3: Trujillo was a brutal dictator. NO!

THEME IS NOT cont. 4. A directive/order or a moral Bad example 4: You will destroy those around you when put in a position of power.

SOME GOOD EXAMPLES Topic: Love Theme: Unconditional love withstands any obstacle. Topic: Hope Theme: It is important to have courage in the face of adversity. Topic: Jealousy Theme: Jealousy can cause lasting damage to individuals and relationships.

WRITING A THEME STATEMENT Helpful reminders: Identifying theme involves making a point about at topic ◦Theme statements should not start with a verb. ◦They should not be a directive : “You will…” ◦They shouldn’t be specific to one text. ◦The theme is what the author is trying to tell the reader about a particular topic central to life

MOST IMPORTANTLY… Themes must always be able to be supported by textual evidence!!! Consider looking at: The title (how the title might indicate or emphasize some important aspect of the universal theme) Characters (lessons learned, struggles, motivations, etc.) Plot (significant events and/or conflicts) Symbols, Allusions, & Patterns