Theme is the underlying comment or idea about life.
• generalization about life stated or implied by the author
• not what happens in the story but what we learn from what happens
• don’t confuse with moral – theme does not pass judgment
• not all stories have a theme

The main purpose of some literature is to present an important theme for the reader to ponder. In your own words, sum up the theme of this story in a single sentence (theme statement). Reread the story to locate three sentences or passages that, in your view, are most important in expressing the theme. Explain your choices. Conclude by telling whether the theme is important to you personally. Do you see it reflected in your own life or in the world around you?

English 12: Students will read The Large Ant by Howard Fast. (handout)

English 11: Students will read Wilhelm by Gabrielle Roy. (handout)