English 9 / Unit 3: Theme and Symbolism
3.6 Comparing Themes Across Texts
Notes
Different texts can share a universal theme (one that appears across cultures and times) but develop it differently.
- Common universal themes: the cost of ambition, the power of hope, coming of age, good vs. evil, the meaning of home.
- To compare: identify each text's theme, then examine how each develops it (characters, symbols, conflict, genre).
- Use compare and contrast words: both, similarly, likewise, however, in contrast, whereas.
- Example: A poem and a short story can both show that "home is people, not a place," one through images and one through plot.
Practice
A myth and a modern novel both show that excessive pride leads to downfall. This shared message is a(n):
A message found across times and cultures is a universal theme.
Which transition best signals a contrast between two texts?
"In contrast" signals a difference.
When comparing how two texts develop the same theme, what should you focus on?
Comparison focuses on how the theme is developed.
Ready for more? Take the Unit 3 test.