The main idea or underlying meaning of a literary
work. A theme may be stated or implied. Theme differs from the
subject or topic of a literary work in that it involves a
statement or opinion about the topic. Not every literary work has
a theme. Themes may be major or minor. A major theme is an idea
the author returns to time and again. It becomes one of the most
important ideas in the story. Minor themes are ideas that may
appear from time to time.
It is important to recognize the difference
between the theme of a literary work and the subject of a
literary work. The subject is the topic on which an author has
chosen to write. The theme, however, makes some statement about
or expresses some opinion on that topic. For example, the subject
of a story might be war while the theme might be the idea that
war is useless.Four ways in which an author
can express themes are as follows:
1. Themes are expressed and emphasized by the way the author
makes us feel.. By sharing feelings of the main character
you also share the ideas that go through his mind.
2. Themes are presented in thoughts and conversations.
Authors put words in their character’s mouths only for good
reasons. One of these is to develop a story’s themes. The things
a person says are much on their mind. Look for thoughts that
are repeated throughout the story.
3. Themes are suggested through the characters. The main
character usually illustrates the most important theme of the
story. A good way to get at this theme is to ask yourself the
question, what does the main character learn in the course
of the story?
4. The actions or events in the story are used to
suggest theme. People naturally express ideas and feelings through
their actions. One thing authors think about is what an action will
"say". In other words, how will the action express an idea or
theme?