A theme is an issue or concern in the text that the writer is trying to explore. When you are reading the text, consider the following checklists:
Introduction ✓✓
✓✓ ✓✓ How is the theme introduced?
Is there a key moment that gives us an indication of the message the author is trying to explore?
Does one of the central characters say or do something that sets us on the path of understanding the theme?
Development ✓✓
✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓
How does the author develop this theme? Is it through a series of small events?
Do we see situations developing that we know must lead to a crisis?
How does the author interest us in the theme? Is it through a central character with whom we can empathise?
Climax ✓✓
✓✓ ✓✓ ✓✓
Is there a moment of crisis or a turning point in the text? Does the central character have to make a difficult decision? Does the character do the right thing? How is this decision linked to the theme?
Resolution ✓✓
✓✓ ✓✓
How is the theme resolved? Are you very clear on the author’s view of the ideas explored in the theme?
Have you learned anything about human behaviour or society in general from the exploration of this theme?
