Finding Universal Themes

A theme is a central, unifying idea that emerges as characters pursue their goals, exploring deeper questions about identity, philosophy, or morality.

Unlike a moral, which is a message or recommendation, a theme presents a complex question without necessarily providing an answer.

In Alice Munro's "Boys and Girls," the theme of gender roles is explored through a girl's struggle with traditionally masculine and feminine activities, raising questions about how gender roles define us.