what is the key difference between the subject and the theme of a story?
Here's an example:
Subject of the play Hamlet: A prince discovers his father was murdered and his uncle has taken over the throne.
Themes: the mystery of death; indecisiveness leads to further problems; and others...
Ok thanks this helped alot
You're welcome.
so would it be, the subject is what the story is about and the theme is what it means?
Right. That's a good way to phrase it.
Plus ... there can be (and usually are) several themes in a good story.
ok thanks this was the question and one of the answers
The key difference between the subject and the theme of a story lies in their functions and their focus within the narrative.
The subject refers to the main topic or idea that the story revolves around. It is the broad, overarching concept or issue that the author explores through the plot, characters, and events. The subject can be quite basic and straightforward, such as love, friendship, or war. It is what the story is about at its core.
To identify the subject of a story, you can examine the main events, conflicts, and the central focus of the narrative. Ask yourself, "What is the central topic or idea that the story is exploring?" This will help you determine the subject of the story.
On the other hand, the theme of a story represents the deeper, underlying message or insight that the author wants to convey. It is the author's perspective or commentary on the subject matter. Themes are more abstract and require a closer analysis of the story's elements, character development, symbolism, and motifs.
To identify the theme of a story, consider the lessons or ideas that the characters, events, or symbols in the narrative convey. Ask yourself questions like, "What is the author trying to say about the subject?" or "What insights or moral values can be inferred from the story?" By analyzing these elements, you can uncover the theme of the story.
In summary, while the subject is the broad topic or idea explored in a story, the theme is the deeper message or insight derived from that subject.