A list of themes that frequently appear in literature.

1. Common Themes
Many books and stories express the same themes in different ways. Here are some common
themes. Have you read any books or seen any movies with these themes?
Identity themes
These themes explore
what it’s like to be
yourself when you are
facing pressures
Natural themes
These themes examine
how we relate to
nature
Honesty themes
These themes explore
the importance of
honesty—with
ourselves and with
others
Themes of good and
evil
These themes explore
the interplay of good
and evil
• Follow your own
path
• Be yourself
• Don’t worry
about what
others think
• Don’t change
just because
others think you
should
•
• If you love
something, let it
go
• Take care of the
natural world
• Take the time to
observe what’s
around you
• People are a part
of nature
• Parents take
care of offspring
• Honesty is the
best policy
• Cheaters never
win
• It’s better to be
honest than to
lie
• Success through
cheating is
unsatisfying
• Be honest with
yourself
• Good will
triumph over evil
• Sacrifices are
worth it in the
battle between
good and evil
• A true hero
fights for good
• Ordinary people
can be heroes
•
E. Kissner 2012

2. Friendship themes
These themes explore
the issues of making
and keeping friends
Morality themes
These themes examine
how we make choices
to do the right thing
Family themes
These themes explore
the importance of
honesty—with
ourselves and with
others
Life themes
These themes explore
the ups and downs of
life
• Friendship is
more important
than money or
popularity
• We can solve
problems by
working together
• Fighting doesn’t
solve problems
• Don’t try to
change your
friends
• Stand up for
what you know
is right
• Making the right
choice has its
own rewards
• Keep your
promises
•
• Family is more
important than
anything else
• Family ties bind
us together
• It’s important to
stand up for
your family
• Remember
where you came
from
•
• Good can come
from bad
• Every cloud has
a silver lining
• Persistence and
effort pay off
• The journey is as
important as the
destination
• Things can work
out in
unexpected ways
• Be prepared for
life’s surprises
E. Kissner 2012

3. E. Kissner 2012