Theme
What is theme in a literary work, and how is it different from the topic?
A: Theme is the central message or lesson about life, while the topic is the subject being discussed.
Q: What is conflict in literature, and why is it essential to a story?
Conflict is the struggle between opposing forces that drives the story forward.
What does tone describe in a piece of writing?
Tone describes the author’s attitude toward the subject or audience.
What is the definition of setting in a story?
Setting is where and when a story takes place.
What is plot in literature?
Plot is the sequence of events that make up a story.
Identify a common theme found in coming-of-age stories and explain it briefly
A common theme is identity, showing a character learning who they are.
What is an example of internal conflict?
A character struggling with fear, guilt, or self-doubt
How can word choice help reveal tone
Specific words create emotions that show whether the tone is serious, playful, or critical
How does setting influence a character’s actions
It shapes what choices are possible or dangerous for the character.
What is the exposition, and what information does it usually provide?
The exposition introduces characters, setting, and background information
Explain how theme is usually revealed indirectly in a story.
Through characters’ actions, conflicts, and outcomes rather than direct statements
What is the difference between character vs. society and character vs. character conflict?
Society involves social rules or laws; character vs. character involves individuals opposing each other
How is tone different from mood
Tone is the author’s attitude; mood is the feeling created for the reader
What is the difference between physical and social setting
Physical is location and time; social includes culture, laws, and class
What role does rising action play in plot development
Rising action builds tension and develops conflicts leading to the climax
How can multiple themes exist in a single story?
Different characters or conflicts can highlight different messages
How does conflict help develop a character?
Conflict forces characters to make choices that reveal their traits
Describe how tone can shift during a story and why.
Events may change the author’s attitude to match story developments
Why is setting especially important in historical fiction?
It grounds the story in a real time period and shapes events realistically
What is the climax, and why is it significant?
The climax is the turning point where the main conflict reaches its peak
Analyze how theme and conflict are connected in storytelling
Conflict illustrates the struggles that reveal the theme
Explain how internal and external conflicts can occur at the same time.
A character may battle others while also struggling emotionally
How does an unreliable narrator affect tone?
It can create uncertainty, irony, or mistrust in the tone.
Explain how setting can act as a source of conflict
Harsh environments or strict societies can challenge characters.
How does resolution contribute to the overall meaning of a story?
It shows the outcome of conflicts and reinforces the theme