IL: Theme: Defining & Determining

What is the best definition of a "theme" in a piece of writing or other work?

• A single word representing the main idea.

• The plot details and character names.

• A central idea, meaning, life lesson, or moral of the story.

• The specific events that happen to the main character.

Which of the following is NOT considered a theme, but rather a subject or topic?

• Revenge destroys everything and everyone.

• Through friendship, you can overcome your fears and insecurities.

• Family.

• We must all take responsibility for our own actions.

Why might two different people interpret the themes of a film differently?

• The film's director intentionally creates ambiguous themes.

• Themes are inherently subjective, and personal life experiences influence interpretation.

• One person is more intelligent than the other.

• The film has too many plot points to have a clear theme.

The video emphasizes that a strong theme should not be just a topic like “love” or “death,” but should be:

• The author’s personal belief

• A life statement that applies broadly to our world

• A summary of the plot

• The central conflict of the story