... theme as "a specific and distinctive quality, characteristic, or concern." Themes help to enhance characters, their relationships, and the overall meaning of the novel. In the novel, The Wars by Timothy Findley, there are a numerous amount of underlying themes on pages one eighty-six to the end of the novel that will be explored. He made a fist around his penis. He thought how small it was. He felt - all at once ... hero, tried to take his life when he was suffering. Making Robert a true hero because a hero endures to the end and that is what Robert did. (172-173) Themes help to enhance...

• Word Count: 1284
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School

The Wars, by Timothy Findley, has numerous symbols and images. However, the symbolism of the four natural elements is very pervasive and effective. Findley uses the symbols of Earth, Water, Air, and Fire in two ways: benevolent and harmful. Findley explicitly conveys the message that a war perverts Nature. Findley gives a good description of "the mud", symbolizing its harshness and hostile nature by giving it "colour of steel."(p.76) The erosion of the topsoil indicates no growth and ... , "It was an image clear and definite as the words themselves: two tiny bottles poised side by side. Crysta...

• Word Count: 1397
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School

... corruption and hatred, while innocence and purity is rejected. In Timothy Findley's "The Wars" Robert was ignorant to the reality and hatred of the world. The war opened his eyes and intern corrupted him, ironically helping him fit better into society. Robert Ross was born into a rich family, in a great big house with a white picket fence. The reason for Robert's innocence was perhaps his seemingly ideal surroundings. Maybe ... was surrounded by peace without any conflict. Mrs. Ross defines conflict, or in Robert's case the war. At home his mother's drinking was the only problem Robert ...

• Word Count: 627
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School