Exploring themes in literature

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• havo
• Leerjaar 4

Exploring themes in literature

what is a theme?

Goals

At the end of the lesson I will know the most popular themes represented in novels

Aat the end of the lesson I will be able to identify a few themes through the use of examples

Difference Moral vs theme

Key Difference:

Theme/Topic: A broad and central idea; not always a direct takeaway.

Moral: A specific lesson intended for the audience.

Example Lord of the rings

Theme: Good vs evil

Moral Message:

Courage and unity can overcome the greatest evil, and even the smallest individual can make a profound difference.

A theme is an important idea that is woven throughout the story

a universal concept with the action of the text which can apply to everyone

give 3 examples of topics/subjects of a story
other than love, family, friendship

How do we find a theme?

Look at the protagonist's journey

How does the main character change throughout the course of the story?

what problem is the character facing? 

what is the central conflict of the story?

Love

Love is one of the most universal themes in literature, as in life.  Love can be a force for good that inspires people to sacrifice themselves for others, or a toxic force that drives people to madness or violence. Romantic connection between two people.

Example (Romeo and Juliet)

Friendship

Friendship as a theme in books explores the bonds between characters, highlighting how relationships built on trust, support, and understanding shape their lives and experiences. The theme can reflect different aspects of friendship, such as loyalty, conflict, reconciliation, or loss, showcasing its emotional depth and significance in human connections

Examples: (The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.)

Good vs. Evil

The classic battle between light and dark. A story about good triumphing over evil may pit two characters directly against each other 

Example: (J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter)

Coming of Age

A classic coming-of-age story follows one or more characters during their journey of growing up into adulthood. These characters may experience everything from a loss of innocence, to an awakening or self-awareness before finally reaching maturity.  It is about discovering oneself into becoming an adult.

Example: (Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky)

Death/Grief/trauma:

Death, grief, and trauma as themes in books explore the profound impact of loss and suffering on individuals and communities. These themes often examine how characters cope with emotional pain, navigate the aftermath of tragedy, and search for meaning in the face of mortality or hardship. 

Example: We Are Okay by Nina LaCour

Identity

Identity as a theme in novels explores how characters understand themselves and their place in the world. It delves into questions of self-discovery, personal growth, and the influences of culture, relationships, and experiences on one’s sense of self. 

Example: The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas.

"I am glad you are here with me. Here at the end of all things. Through fire and ash, through darkness and despair, there is no one I would rather have by my side than you." 

What could the theme of this story be?

"I would rather spend one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone. I choose a mortal life, not because I .... the suffering of men, but because my ...... for you is greater than anything else this world has to offer."

What could the theme of this story be?

"It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities. To stand firm in the face of uncertainty, to make mistakes, and to rise again—this is the journey to becoming who we are meant to be.

What could the theme of this story be?

"But in the end, it’s only a passing thing, this shadow; even darkness must pass. A new day will come, and when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer, reminding us that the light can never truly be extinguished."

What could the theme of this story be?

"She didn’t leave me enough to discover her, but she left me enough to wonder. I thought that if I got to know her well enough, I could have kept her here. I could have kept her going. She was gone, and all of the things she had ruined in her wake—our plans, our hopes, our loves—all of it, I could have forgiven her for all of it if she’d just forgiven herself."

How to put it into your logbook

Good vs. Evil

The battle between Sauron’s domination and the Fellowship’s unity reflects the classic struggle of good versus evil. The Fellowship, made up of diverse individuals, bands together to fight against the corrupting darkness of the Ring. Gandalf’s words, “There is some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for,” capture the hope and resilience that define this theme.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Ask 1 question about something you have not understood yet.