Have you ever wondered what a story is really about? Not just the plot—what happens—but the core idea it explores? That’s where Subject comes in. It’s a fundamental element in understanding any piece of writing, from a short poem to a sprawling novel. Let’s unpack this crucial literary term.
Understanding Subject in Literature
What is Subject? A Simple Definition
In literature, Subject refers to the central topic, idea, or theme that a work explores. It’s what the author is saying about life, human nature, or the world. Think of it as the overarching message, even if it’s not explicitly stated. It’s broader than just the plot; the plot reveals the subject. For example, a story about a lost dog might have the subject of loneliness or the importance of companionship.
Subject vs. Topic vs. Theme
These terms are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences. The topic is simply what the story is about on a surface level—war, love, family. The subject is the deeper, more conceptual exploration of that topic. And the theme is the author’s specific statement about the subject—the insight they offer.
Let’s illustrate with an example:
| Topic | Love |
| Subject | The complexities of romantic relationships |
| Theme | True love requires sacrifice and unwavering commitment. |
Notice how the theme is a specific statement about the subject. The subject is the broad area of exploration.
Identifying the Subject: A Step-by-Step Approach
- Look Beyond the Plot: Don’t get stuck in what happens. Ask yourself, “What is the author trying to convey through these events?”
- Identify Recurring Ideas: What ideas, images, or motifs appear repeatedly throughout the work? These often point towards the subject.
- Consider Character Development: How do the characters change and what do they learn? Their journeys often reveal the subject.
- Analyze Symbolism: What do the symbols in the text represent? Symbols frequently illuminate the subject.
In-Depth Examples of Subject in Literature
Example 1: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
On the surface, the plot of To Kill a Mockingbird revolves around a trial and Scout Finch’s childhood. However, the subject is much deeper. It’s an exploration of racial injustice, prejudice, and the loss of innocence. Lee doesn’t just tell a story about a trial; she uses the trial as a lens to examine the pervasive racism in the American South and the damaging effects it has on individuals and communities. The character of Atticus Finch embodies the struggle for moral courage in the face of societal prejudice, while Boo Radley represents the vulnerability of those who are marginalized.
Example 2: 1984 by George Orwell
The plot of 1984 centers on Winston Smith’s rebellion against a totalitarian government. But the subject is the dangers of unchecked power, totalitarianism, and the manipulation of truth. Orwell doesn’t simply write a dystopian thriller; he explores how language, surveillance, and propaganda can be used to control thought and suppress individuality. The ever-present “Big Brother” symbolizes the omnipresent authority that monitors and controls every aspect of citizens’ lives. The Party’s manipulation of history highlights the importance of preserving truth and resisting ideological control.
Example 3: Shakespeare’s Hamlet
Hamlet tells the story of a prince seeking revenge for his father’s murder. However, its subject extends far beyond simple revenge. It delves into the complexities of grief, morality, and the human condition. Shakespeare explores themes of existentialism, madness, and the corrupting influence of power. Hamlet’s famous “To be or not to be” soliloquy grapples with fundamental questions about life, death, and the meaning of existence. The play’s exploration of Claudius’s guilt and ambition highlights the destructive consequences of unchecked desire.
Example 4: A Short Poem – “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost
While seemingly about choosing a path in the woods, the subject of “The Road Not Taken” is the nature of choice and its impact on our lives. Frost isn’t merely describing a walk; he’s contemplating how seemingly small decisions can shape our destinies. The diverging paths symbolize the countless possibilities that life presents, and the speaker’s reflection on his choice suggests the power of self deception and the human tendency to romanticize the past. The poem prompts us to consider the weight of our choices and the inevitability of regret.
Example 5: A Fable – “The Tortoise and the Hare” by Aesop
On the surface, this fable is a simple race between a slow tortoise and a fast hare. However, the subject is the value of perseverance and humility. Aesop isn’t just telling a story about a race; he’s conveying a moral lesson about the importance of consistent effort over reckless overconfidence. The hare’s arrogance and subsequent defeat demonstrate that talent alone is not enough to achieve success. The tortoise’s slow but steady progress highlights the power of dedication and resilience.
Subject in Different Literary Genres
The concept of subject applies across all literary genres. In poetry, the subject is often more abstract and symbolic, focusing on themes of love, loss, or the human condition. In drama, the subject is often explored through character interactions and conflicts. In fiction, the subject is revealed through plot, character development, and symbolism. Even in non-fiction, like essays or biographies, the subject is the central idea or argument that the author is presenting.
Understanding Subject is not just about identifying the topic of a story, it’s about unlocking the deeper meaning and appreciating the author’s insights. It’s about recognizing what the author is truly trying to say, beyond the surface level events. By consistently analyzing the subject of literary works, you’ll cultivate a richer and more nuanced understanding of literature and the world around you.
So, the next time you read a story, poem, or play, don’t just ask yourself what happened. Ask yourself: what is the author really trying to say?