1. Theme: More Than Just an Idea

2. Definition Theme: a universal idea that is explored in a text
It’s not just the word – it’s the author’s perspective on that idea
Theme  Theme Statement

3. The Short Stories “The Most Dangerous Game” “Cask of Amontillado”
Theme: Revenge
Theme Statement: People may become so obsessed with revenge that they imagine reasons to take it.
“The Most Dangerous Game”
Theme: Value of Life
Theme Statement: It’s important to respect and value all kinds of life.

4. “The Interlopers” “Tell-tale Heart” Theme: Petty Arguments
Theme Statement: Lay aside feuds or arguments as they may lead to destruction.
“Tell-tale Heart”
Theme: Guilt
Theme Statement: A person’s own guilt will often destroy them.

5. Theme: Loss of Innocence
“The Story of an Hour”
Theme: Freedom
Theme Statement: It is better to die than to be without freedom.
“The Scarlet Ibis”
Theme: Loss of Innocence
Theme Statement: Learn to accept those around you for who they are.

6. You Try In pairs… Think about the events in “After I Was Thrown”
Brainstorm at least 3 themes explored
Write a theme statement for one theme
Find a direct quotation from the story to defend your theme statement