Character and Theme Analysis Guide

1. Read the question carefully and identify which characters or themes you need to focus on.

Think back to your revision notes. What is your opinion about this character or theme?

For each character:

1. Consider why they are important in the play. Why do you think the writer included this character?
2. Consider how the character changes in the play. How does this character develop as the play progresses?
3. Identify the key moments for this character. Which scenes do they play an important part in?
4. Think of your notes about the different themes in the play. Does thinking about a theme develop your understanding of a character? How could you also talk about themes here?
5. Think of your notes about the historical context of the play. Does this develop your understanding of the character?
6. Analyse quotations and consider how the writer has used language to tell us something about the characters.

For each theme:

1. Consider why they are important in the play. Why do you think the writer wants the audience to think about this issue?
2. Consider how the theme changes in the play. How does this theme develop as the play progresses?
3. Identify the key moments for this theme. Which scenes do they play an important part in?
4. Look at your notes about the different characters in the play. Does thinking about a character develop your understanding of a theme?
5. Look at your notes about the historical context of the play. Does this develop your understanding of the theme?
6. Pick at least three quotations for each theme. Annotate them to consider how thee writer has used language to tell us something.

• Read the extract and pick out 2/3 quotations you would like to focus on. Annotate these to consider how the writer has used language/structure/form for effect.
• Identify other moments in the play that you think are important in exploring your opinion about the characters/themes.
• Consider what information about historical context will help your explore your opinion.
• When planning, order your notes into 4-6 clear points you are going to make.

Aiming for top grades?

• Can you see how a particular motif is important in this extract/the whole play?
• Have you got a point to make about structure and/or form?
• Can you consider alternative opinions to your own? What do other people think about this theme or character?
• Make sure you have a clear line or argument (thesis) that answers the question.

Example Question: Explore how the theme of civilisation versus savagery is presented in "Lord of the Flies."

1. Start with a Clear Point:

2. Introduce the Quotation:

3. Analyse and Explain the Quote: Break down how the quote reflects the theme and its impact on the characters.

4. Introduce Further Evidence: Provide additional evidence to support your analysis and deepen your argument.

5. Explain This Evidence and Link Back to the Question: Discuss how this additional evidence ties back to the theme and overall argument.

• Repeat This Process: Use this approach for additional points to ensure a thorough analysis of the theme throughout your essay.

Points to Remember:

• Use Varied Language: Choose advanced words to enhance your writing (reflects, emphasises, indicates, etc.).
• Link Back to the Theme: Always connect your examples back to the theme of the question e.g. civilisation vs savagery to strengthen your argument.