Theme & Meaning

Question 1

Symbolism

Answer 1

Symbolism uses objects or actions to represent deeper meanings.

Example: A broken mirror symbolising fractured identity.

Objects or actions with deeper meaning

Question 2

Motif

Answer 2

A motif is a recurring element that has symbolic significance.

Example: Repeated references to light and darkness.

Recurring elements that reinforce themes

Question 3

Juxtaposition

Answer 3

Juxtaposition places contrasting ideas side by side.

Example: Innocence vs. corruption.

Contrasting ideas or images

Question 4

Subversion

Answer 4

Subversion flips expectations or norms.

Example: A villain saving the day.

Challenging expectations or norms

Question 5

Appropriation

Answer 5

Appropriation uses existing content in a new context to create new meaning.

Example: Remixing a classic painting in a modern meme.

Reusing existing content to create new meaning

Question 6

Allusion

Answer 6

An allusion is a reference to another work, event, or figure.

Example: “He met his Waterloo.”

References to other texts or events

Question 7

Perspective

Answer 7

Perspective is the viewpoint from which the story is told.

Example: First-person narration vs. third-person omniscient.

The point of view and its influence on meaning