Final answer:
The central themes of dystopian novels include government control, environmental destruction, technological control, survival, and loss of individualism. These themes are explored through the story and characters, allowing authors to comment on important societal issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The central themes of dystopian novels fall under various topics such as government control, environmental destruction, technological control, survival, and loss of individualism. Dystopian novels often depict a future setting where these themes are explored through the story and characters.
For example, George Orwell's 1984 portrays a society controlled by a centralized government that suppresses individual freedom, while also highlighting the impact of government surveillance and manipulation. Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man showcases a different type of totalitarianism, focusing on the search for identity and meaning in a racially oppressive society.
These themes in dystopian novels reflect social and political concerns, and serve as commentary on important societal issues. They provide a lens through which authors explore the consequences of unchecked power, environmental degradation, and the struggle of individuals to maintain their autonomy in the face of oppressive forces.