Question

Why is this statement considered a theme and not a plot summary?

people can be cruel when they are confused or hurt

Answer 1

A plot summary lists specific turning points of a story, such as the inciting incident and the climax. However, a theme is an overarching idea that an author wishes to convey to their audience. The given phrase does not summarize the plot; it states the overall message. Therefore, it is a theme.

Hope this helped :)

Answer 2

This does not describe the beginning, climax, resolution, etc. Instead it is the theme or the main idea that the author wanted you to take away from the story.