“Moral Identity And Narrative Centrality: Examining Thematic Values In Contemporary Primary Fiction”

Abstract

This research article analyzes the connection between moral identity and narrative centrality in recent primary fiction and argues that the ethical power of children ’s novels lies in the organisation of values through narrative structure. Moral identity is defined as the extent to which a moral person matters to an individual’s identity (Hardy and Carlo, 212), and the importance of moral traits is divided into internalisation (personal values of moral character) and symbolisation (social moral personality). Narrative centrality refers to the degree to which ethical issues are central to plot, voice, and institutional contexts, moving beyond detrimental morality. The article provides an analysis of how moral identity is staged as a dynamic negotiation through tools such as precepts, polyphonic narration, and climactic moral verdicts, utilising * Wonder * (2012, Palacio) as a representative example of classroom fiction in the modern era (Palacio 304). It combines disability representation scholarship and ethical criticism to assess the dangers of sentimental or stereotypical readings and suggests pedagogical approaches to values education based on critical and dialogic reading practices.