1. Motifs in Literature

2. What is a Motif? Repeated idea, image, pattern Throughout a text
Helps reveal the THEME of the text.

3. Three Steps 1) Identify the reoccurring pattern. Track the pattern
Propose meaning from pattern or items IN that pattern

4. Examples Conch shell in Lord of the Flies
Archetypes (remember from WS)
Tree
Water
Colors
Birds – Psycho
Green light – The Great Gatsby

5. Raiders of the Lost Ark
Colors

6. Speed
Phrase = “pop quiz”

7. Jaws Item = Barrels Shoot the shark with barrels
to bring him to the surface.
We see the gradual adding of barrels.
Don’t see the shark…just barrels!

8. Summary Motifs are in literature and in movies. Reoccurring patterns.
Help reveal the theme (the message) of the text.