book review scarlet pimpernel

book review scarlet pimpernel

Difference between literary plot motif and author theme?

I’m trying to write a book review essay on the Scarlet Pimpernel as a placement test for a class I’m taking. The assignment says that i have to “Pick One Author theme that you saw played out over and over in the book, such as selfishness brings heartache or love is blind.” and then the second part is “Pick one literary plot motif that is the strongest (such as Rags to Riches, Initiation, or Quest.)” What is the difference between the two?? I am so confused.

a motif is like an idea used in the story repeated like a number or a culture
ex:3 in greek mythology 3furies 3heroes on quests 3 big gods
theme is the message the author wants you to understand
like be nice to people listen idk whatever it is.its like a lesson

Unorthodox view of The Scarlet Pimpernel