1. Theme
Mr. Rainwater

2. The main idea or underlying meaning of a literary work
Definition
Theme:
The main idea or underlying meaning of a literary work

3. Basic Characteristics
A theme may be stated or implied
Theme differs from the subject or topic of a literary work in that it involves a statement or opinion about the topic.
Topics are usually one to two words
Themes may be major or minor

4. Major vs. Minor
A major theme is an idea the author returns to time and again; it becomes one of the most important ideas in the story and is the major lesson that the reader takes away with them.
A minor theme is an idea that may appear only periodically (once in awhile).

5. Theme and Topic
It is important to recognize the difference between the theme of a literary work and the topic of a literary work.
The topic is the subject or idea on which an author has chosen to write.
The theme, however, makes a statement about or expresses some opinion on that topic.

6. Example
The subject of a story might be war while the theme of that same story might be the idea that “war is useless.”

7. How Do Authors Express Themes?
Through the feelings of the main character
Through thoughts and conversations
Through what the main character learns
Through specific actions or events

8. Creating Theme Statements
Use the graphic organizer to create theme statements.
1)Let’s look at an example…
2)Find a partner who has a similar main topic
3)Work together to create a theme statement
a) beware of the cliché! (overused phrases that lose their importance over time – ex. Love is Blind, Don’t judge a book by its cover)
4) Group up, share statements, give notes for improvement, pick one to share with the class.