Explore & Practice Mod 1

Theme is defined as a main idea or an underlying meaning of a literary work. The theme of any work may be stated directly or indirectly meaning it may be obvious or it may require the use of your noggin and some deep contemplation. There are two types of theme that show up in literary works: major and minor. A major theme is REPEATED in the author's work and is usually the main focus of that piece of literature. However, a minor theme refers to an idea that briefly appears in the work and paves the way for another minor theme.

Something to keep in mind...some stories have multiple themes. As always, literature can be interpreted in numerous ways so what may appear to be a major theme to some, may be considered a minor theme to others.

A story has five basic elements: plot, setting, characters, conflict, and theme. These essential elements keep the story running smoothly and allow the action to develop in a logical way that the reader can follow. These elements work together to create stories that are much more complex than the sentences on the surface. Being able to identify, analyze, and use these elements will help you discover the deeper meanings in every story.

Conflict is a struggle between two people or things in the story. The main character is usually on one side of the central conflict. On the other side, the main character may struggle against another important character, against the forces of nature, against society, or even against something inside himself or herself (feelings, emotions, illness). Be sure to check out the slide on the Module 1 page for further review.

That brings us to the characters! This is where we get our hands dirty. The characters are the individuals that the story is about. The author usually introduces the characters in the exposition with enough information that the reader can visualize each character. This is achieved by providing detailed descriptions of a character’s physical attributes and personality traits. The main character determines the way the plot will develop and will usually solve the problem the story centers upon. However, the other characters are also very important because they supply additional details, explanations, or actions. The other characters also provide opportunities to show growth and/or changes that occur in our main character. All characters should stay true to the author’s descriptions throughout the story so that the reader can understand and believe the action that is taking place—and perhaps even predict which character may do what next. This is called characterization.

If you are looking to analyze a story, here are some helpful inquiries to keep in mind.

• Why do certain characters act the way they act?
• How is the book structured? Flashbacks? Multiple points of view?
• What types of symbolism do you find in this story? What do these objects really represent? How do characters react to and with these symbolic objects?
• What themes recur throughout the story?
• How is the setting of the story important to the theme?
• Does the book address broader social issues? How is a particular culture or subculture portrayed?
• Where could the story go after the book ends? What is the future of these characters' lives?
• How do the characters connect with or interact with the main events in the story?
• How to the events help develop or shape the theme, mood, or overall storyline.
• Do the characters change or grow as individuals, or are they alike throughout the story? If the characters change, is there a good reason for their change? If so, what is it?

Congrats to you, scholar. Your risks have paid off. Move on to Module 2.