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Learn how to identify the underlying message or theme in a mythological story.
Why do we still tell stories about ancient Greek gods or Norse heroes thousands of years later? Is it just because of the monsters, or is there a secret message hidden inside that still matters to your life today?
To understand a myth, you have to look past the action. The plot is the sequence of events—the 'what' happened. For example, a hero fights a dragon. However, the theme is the 'why'—the underlying message or lesson about human nature. Think of it like this: if the plot is the skeleton of the story, the theme is its soul. A theme is universal, meaning it is a big idea that stays true across different cultures and time periods. While the plot might be about a specific god in ancient Greece, the theme could be about something we all feel, like the danger of being too proud.
1. Plot: A boy repeatedly tricks villagers by shouting that a wolf is attacking his sheep. When a real wolf appears, no one believes him. 2. Theme: Honesty is the best policy, or 'liars are not believed even when they speak the truth.' 3. Difference: The plot is about sheep and wolves; the theme is about the importance of being truthful.
Quick Check
If a story is about a girl winning a race after practicing every day, is 'winning a race' the plot or the theme?
Answer
It is the plot. The theme would be something like 'hard work leads to success.'
Mythology often focuses on a few 'Big Ideas.' Bravery isn't just about fighting; it’s about facing fear to help others. Greed shows how wanting too much of something can lead to a person's downfall. Curiosity often explores the balance between the desire to know and the danger of meddling with things we don't understand. When you read a myth, ask yourself: 'What is the main character's biggest mistake or greatest strength?' The answer usually points directly to the theme. Remember that .
1. The Action: King Midas wishes that everything he touches turns to gold. He soon realizes he cannot eat or hug his daughter. 2. The Theme: Greed. The story teaches that 'true wealth is found in things gold cannot buy.' 3. Universal Application: This message applies to anyone today who might value money over family.
Quick Check
Which theme is most likely found in a story where a character opens a forbidden box just to see what is inside?
Answer
Curiosity.
Finding a theme is like being a detective. You won't usually find the theme written in the first sentence. Instead, you must look for clues. Look at the conflict (the struggle the hero faces) and the resolution (how the story ends). If the hero fails because they were too arrogant, the theme might be about the importance of humility. If the hero succeeds by working with others, the theme might be about the power of cooperation. Themes are rarely just one word; they are usually a full statement about life.
1. The Conflict: Icarus uses wings made of wax and feathers to escape an island. His father warns him not to fly too close to the sun. 2. The Resolution: Icarus ignores the warning, the sun melts the wax, and he falls into the sea. 3. The Theme: This is a theme of Hubris (excessive pride). The message is that 'ignoring wise advice and overestimating your own power leads to disaster.'
What is the best definition of a 'Universal Message'?
In the myth of Hercules performing 12 difficult labors to help others, what is the most likely theme?
The theme of a story is usually the same thing as the summary of the plot.
Review Tomorrow
In 24 hours, try to explain to a friend the difference between a 'plot' and a 'theme' using your favorite movie as an example.
Practice Activity
Watch a short cartoon or read a fable today. Write down one sentence describing the plot and one sentence describing the theme.