The journey of Tris from a sheltered Abnegation girl to a confident Dauntless initiate represents the universal struggle of finding one's true identity. Her Divergence forces her to question the rigid societal structure and embrace her unique qualities, even when they put her at risk.

The faction system represents humanity's attempt to control and eliminate undesirable behaviors through strict categorization. This theme explores how enforced conformity leads to oppression and how true peace cannot be achieved through artificial constraints on human nature.

Throughout the narrative, characters must choose between personal safety and standing up for their beliefs. Tris's evolution from someone who fears her differences to someone willing to risk everything to protect others illuminates the true meaning of bravery.