Identifying Themes
A theme is a central message or idea that comes across in a work of literature. It’s not simply what the story is about (not just a subject or topic), but rather what message or idea the author wants to convey or
explore through the story. Themes are often universal ideas that are explored in many different texts across time and culture. They are best represented as a complete thought or statement (like ‘love conquers all’, ‘war brings out the best and worst in humanity’, ‘death is an inevitable part of life’).
Common misunderstandings students often have about theme include:
- Confusing theme with plot: One of the most common misconceptions is that theme is the same as the plot of the story. The plot is the sequence of events or actions that happen in the story, whereas the theme is the underlying message or idea that these events convey. For example, a plot might be about a young girl who overcomes her fear of water to save a drowning child, but the theme might be about courage, overcoming personal fears, or self-sacrifice.
- Simplifying theme to a single word: A full understanding of a theme requires a more nuanced view than simply stating a concept in a single word, such as ‘love’, ‘betrayal’, or ‘freedom’. For instance, it would be more accurate to say that a theme is ‘love can conquer great obstacles’ rather than just ‘love’.
- Thinking there’s only one correct theme: Another misconception is that there’s always a single ‘correct’ theme for a piece of literature. In fact, most works of literature explore multiple themes, and different readers may identify different themes based on their own perspectives, backgrounds, and interpretations.
- Believing that a theme is an author’s opinion: Students sometimes think that a theme is the author’s opinion or belief. However, while authors do use themes to explore ideas or spark thought, a theme is not necessarily an endorsement of a particular viewpoint. It’s more of a commentary or exploration of an aspect of human experience.
Ways to Identify a Theme in Literature:
- Through Characters’ Actions and Decisions: One of the ways a theme can be identified in a piece of literature is through the actions and decisions of the characters. By observing what they do and how they respond to different situations, one can identify recurrent patterns or motifs that point towards a central idea or message. For example, if a character consistently makes sacrifices for others, it could suggest themes of selflessness or sacrifice.
- Through Recurrent Symbols or Images: Authors often use symbols and imagery to signify deeper meanings and abstract concepts. These can be objects, places, or even characters that carry symbolic weight. By identifying these recurring symbols and contemplating their possible significance, one can decipher potential themes. For instance, the recurring image of a bird may represent themes of freedom or aspiration.
- Through Dialogue and Narration: The way characters speak, the words they use, and the thoughts expressed in the narration often carry significant hints towards the underlying themes of the story. Paying attention to pivotal conversations, monologues, or narrative observations can lead to a better understanding of the central ideas. For example, if characters consistently discuss notions of fate, it might indicate a theme of destiny or predetermination.
- Through Conflict and Resolution: The conflicts that characters face and how they are resolved can also be indicative of the themes within a piece of literature. Conflicts might be internal (within a character’s mind) or external (with other characters, society, or nature). The way these conflicts are addressed, managed, or resolved can provide clues to the author’s thematic intent. For instance, if a main conflict involves a struggle for personal identity against societal norms, themes might include individuality, conformity, or rebellion.
