The Mark - Themes

Question 1

What are the main themes of The Mark?

Answer 1

Freedom and control
Appearance vs. reality
Oppression and class arrogance

Question 2

How is the theme freedom and control demonstrated?

Answer 2

• Ettie does everything in her power to remove the mark
• Nicolas tries to avoid his future of becoming a locust
• Other characters like Kitty, Me and Handler Xavier are prepared to fight for freedom and independence despite the risks involved
• Laws are created by a the small group of elite

Question 3

How is the theme Appearance vs. Reality demonstrated?

Answer 3

• Having an election seems democratic but the positions are already guaranteed
• In the criminal justice system, prisoners are assumed to be guilty, they are tortured until they confess to things they have not done
• Throughout the novel, Ettie mentions the mask she wears to deceive or trick people
• Handler Xavier is a con-artist
• Mistress wears a mask to hide her real feelings for her husband

Question 4

How is the theme oppression and class arrogance demonstrated?

Answer 4

• The Machine matches people of the same class together. Because the elite control The Machine, they manipulate the system to ensure their children are matched with a suitable mate.
• The Machine controls the future of each individual.
• The Machine’s numbers dehumanises people.
• It decides what a person will do and who the person will mate with.
• The system is set up to benefit the elite.
• Elected Guardians all come from Mangerian families.