Themes in The Diary of Anne Frank
• A theme is general statement about our
experience as human beings. It is always
expressed as a complete statement.
– Example: A positive attitude makes life
more enjoyable.
What theme might each quotation represent?
Read all six, and then choose two to copy in your notebook.
1.
The Van Daans and Dussel bicker about who will cut the cake.
–
2.
Mr. Van Daan is discovered stealing bread, and Mrs. Frank wants
to throw him out.
–
3.
Tough situations are easier to handle when you have someone you
can talk to.
“I think more seriously about life now.”
–
6.
Never despair about the goodness of human beings.
Anne cheers up when she finds that she can talk to Peter.
–
5.
Stressful situations often bring out the worst in people.
“In spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at
heart.”
–
4.
When we worry about the small things, we lose sight of what is
really important.
Difficult situations can make people more mature and courageous.
“You know what I do when it seems as if I couldn’t stand being
cooped up for one more minute? I think myself out.
–
Imagination can help you survive difficult situations.