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As a literary device, theme refers to the central, deeper meaning of a written work. Writers typically will convey the theme of their work, and allow the reader to perceive and interpret it, rather than overtly or directly state the theme.
- Love and Sacrifice. Love, as one of the most intense of human emotions, also features as a core theme in not only literature, but also music, film, and theater.
- The Individual versus Society. The individual vs society theme – one of the six key types of conflict in literature – occurs when one person grapples with and stands up against established social norms, mores, and powers-that-be.
- The Hero’s Journey. This theme, derived from Joseph Campbell’s monomyth theory, features characters undertaking great journeys or quests. According to the monomyth theory, there is a common motif throughout stories – both historical and fabricated – that gain currency in the social imagination.
- Coming of Age. This theme, also known as the Bildungsroman, focuses on the growth and maturation of a young protagonist, usually a teenager. Over the course of the story, they confront and overcome personal or societal hurdles, ultimately leading to self-discovery and self-acceptance.
May 7, 2024 · There are countless ways to approach the theme of a story or poem, so let’s take a look at some theme examples and a list of themes in literature. We’ll discuss the differences between theme and other devices, like theme vs moral and theme vs topic.
A concise definition of Theme along with usage tips, a deeper explanation, and lots of examples.
- Definition of Theme. As a literary device, theme is the central topic or idea explored in a text. Usually the theme of a work of literature can be stated in one word, such as “love” or “solitude.”
- Thematic Concept vs. Thematic Statement. The definition of theme can be broken into two categories: the thematic concept of a work and the thematic statement.
- Common Examples of Theme. Many politicians craft a message about their campaign around a central theme. In 2008, American presidential candidate Barack Obama used the themes of “hope” and “change” to energize voters.
- Significance of Theme in Literature. All works of literature contain some sort of theme. Themes are generally universal in nature, and relate to the condition of being human.
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Clear definition and great examples of Theme. This article will show you the importance of Theme and how to use it. The central idea, topic, or point of a story, essay, or narrative is its theme.
For example, “the power of social status,” “the destructive nature of love,” or “the fallibility of the human condition” are all common themes. Theme can be expressed through every element of a literary work, including plot, characters, and setting.
