Deadly Unna: Key Themes

The lesson begins with an explanation of what themes are, and an image of common themes in literature.

Following this there are slides explaining the following themes:

1. Masculinity (and toxic masculinity)
2. Racism
3. The importance of family
4. Mateship
5. Duty and Sacrifice

Examples from the novel are provided.

This is followed by a practice question + some planning activities around this question.

Resources designed for 10 English in Queensland, Australia. It is part of a novel study unit which culminates in a 90-minute examination (500 to 800-word essay). Students had 1 week notice of the question and could bring 100 words of notes in with them.

Within this unit students explored how an author’s use of language features, images and vocabulary contributed to the representation of themes in the novel. They also gained a deeper understanding of key literary techniques, including (but not limited to) characterisation, plot, and setting.