Character and theme are often connected

The "deeper meaning" of a fiction work is often closely related to the struggles and conflicts of characters in the work.

Here's how to figure out a character, and find out what the author is trying to tell you:

• Be focused: What details does the author describe? Not describe? Just because something could possibly happen, that doesn't mean it's the most sensible interpretation!
• Notice character actions and reactions (contrast them with other characters’ actions and reactions);
• Infer character motivations; What are the possible reasons a character acts the way he/she does?
• Understand context: Has the character said or done other things that help you make sense of his (or her) actions?
• Observe changes in a character by the end of the story;
• Ask yourself: "By telling the reader about the struggles of this character (or these characters), what is the author trying to tell me about people in general?"