Theme is the overall moral or message the writer is trying to convey.

The message might be about life, society, or human nature.

Themes often explore universal ideas and may be implied rather than stated explicitly.

Theme is one of the most fundamental aspects of a work of art.

Theme

•Many readers view themes differently, so you must figure out the theme for yourself.

•No single theme is likely to be the ‘correct’ one, though some seem more likely than others. Stories typically have more than one theme.

•Theme is at the center; it is the moving force- the principle of unity.

Theme

•Check out the title. Sometimes it tells you a lot about the theme.

•Notice repeating patterns and symbols. Sometimes these lead you to the theme.

•Theme can be revealed through: SETTING; CHARACTERS actions, thoughts, and words; POINT OF VIEW, MOTIFS, IMAGERY

•Also, be aware that a theme we determine from a story never completely explains the novel. It is simply one of the elements that make up the whole.

How do you find themes?

1. Think of an idea that is in the story2. Turn the idea into an assertion3. Find rationalization of the assertion in the

story4. Now, decide, is the assertion a theme?

How do you find themes?

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Friendship                      Friendship can be a challenge and a comfort.

Dreams                           Not all dreams come true.

Loneliness                      All people are lonely in their own way.

Strength                         Strength is not always a good physical characteris=c to have.

Dogs                               Dogs make good friends.

Farming                          Farming is a hard life.

Migrant workers           Migrant workers must move around a lot.

Death                              Death is a tragedy.

Assertions

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Of Mice and Men is, in essence, a work that defines friendship. Steinbeck highlights how friendship can offer both comfort and challenges; however, most importantly, it shows readers that true friendship requires selflessness.

Possible Thesis

One of the messages Steinbeck wants to convey in Of Mice and Men is that not all dreams are achievable, but even the pursuit of a dream can sustain us.

Possible Thesis

What theme or message does the author convey in your text? How and why are these messages communicated?

Literary Analysis Essay - Theme