Final answer:
The central theme of 12 Angry Men is justice, explored through the concepts of prejudice, reasonable doubt, and conflict resolution, as the jurors deliberate in a homicide trial. The film examines the intricacies of the judicial process and the interplay between personal biases and the search for truth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Themes in 12 Angry Men
The theme of justice is central to the film 12 Angry Men, as the jurors debate the guilt or innocence of a defendant in a homicide trial. The deliberation process exposes various personal biases and preconceptions of the jurors, highlighting the theme of prejudice. Reasonable doubt serves as a key theme as well, indicating that a person cannot be convicted if there is any reasonable uncertainty regarding their guilt.
Another significant theme in the play is conflict resolution. The jurors' conflicting views on the case must be resolved not only through evidence but also by navigating the power dynamics within the jury room. As they work towards a unanimous decision, the jurors must confront their individual moral compasses and the broader questions about the functioning of the justice system.
It's important to note that while critical race theory offers a perspective on the justice system and minority representation on juries, it does not form a part of the narrative or themes of 12 Angry Men. Instead, the film focuses on the complexities of the judicial process and the human elements that influence it, such as empathy and civic duty.