Good versus Evil

The primary plot throughout the entire novel is that of good versus evil. Biblical symbolism can be found throughout the book. Each of the characters experiences an inner struggle with good versus evil.

Jack struggles with the good and evil of protecting Tris from the spying eyes of the news and television cameras that want to portray Tris as a killer. He also struggles with having to sacrifice his own wants and needs as a typical teenage boy to become the father figure and protector Tris needs. Madison struggles with the good and evil of leaving her family behind and trying to start her life over. Smithy has a similar struggle. All of the Fountain children and Diana contend with the evilness Cheryl has brought into their lives, which ultimately caused the death of Reed Fountain.

Coming of Age

One of the primary themes that run...