To identify a story's themes, the following two steps can be particularly effective:
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Analyze the Characters and Their Journeys: Pay attention to the main characters, their motivations, struggles, and transformations throughout the story. Understanding what they go through can reveal deeper messages or insights about human nature and societal issues.
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Examine the Setting and Context: Consider the time and place in which the story is set, as well as the historical or cultural context. The setting often influences the themes and can provide clues about the author’s intended message or commentary on certain topics.
These steps can help readers uncover the underlying themes present in the narrative.