Happiness doesn't result from what we get, but from what we give. Ben Carson
Idea Transcript
The Pearl by John Steinbeck In a literary work, the THEME is the author’s major point, the central idea. Theme goes beyond events of the plot to draw major conclusions, or at least leave important questions, about life. As a PARABLE (a story primarily to teach a moral or answer a question), THE PEARL is basically a message novel. Characters, plot, mood – all the literary elements – are secondary to Steinbeck’s thought-provoking messages. The graphic organizer below illustrates a theme and the ideas that support this theme in the story. (Review this carefully.)
When the townspeople hear of Kino’s pearl, they plan how they will get a share of the wealth.
The doctor secretly poisons Coyotito to get information about the pearl and gain money to return to Paris.
Kino loses his son, house, and boat because he refuses to give up the pearl.
Theme:
MATERIALISM CORRUPTS AND DESTROYS.
Kino refuses to give up the pearl saying he will lose his soul if he does.
Out of all Keno’s dreams, only one comes true – he gets a rifle.