1. Characterization and Theme

2. The Seven Elements of Characterization (C7E)
Appearance
Conflict
Change
Relationships
Motivation
Background
Personality

3. Why is change so important?
When a character changes, he/she learns something…..and so do we! This often leads to the development of theme.

4. What is theme, anyway? The central message of a literary work.
Often expressed as a sentence or a statement about life or human nature.

5. What isn’t theme, anyway?
Theme is not the same as a subject, which can be expressed in a word or two.
For example: Love (subject) vs. “Love can be deadly” (theme)

6. What else isn’t theme? Theme is not a moral, a directive, or an order.
For example, “Don’t fall in love with vampires” is not a theme, but “Falling in love can be dangerous” is!

7. Is there anything else I should avoid?
Themes are not trite (overused statements or clichéd) sayings.
For example, “Love hurts” is not a theme, but “Love can be a painful learning experience” is!

8. So…..how do I write a thematic statement?
Begin by using one or several abstract words to state the principal idea of the work (what the work is really about).
For example, love or freedom
2. Combine those words with comments that reflect the author’s observations about human nature, the human condition, or human motivation.
In other words, what is the author saying about this abstract concept?