Central Theme

Thanks.

Another possible theme is the possible danger of becoming insensitive and growing a hardened heart because of repeated viewing of death. Participating in hunting as a sport rather than for necessity gives killing a recreational purpose. Even more dangerous is that the thrill of the sport requires greater and greater challenges -- more difficult prey -- and hunters can start hunting species they shouldn't hunt (as in this story), as well as become uncaring about the pain they inflict upon their quarry. Notice that Rainsford did not seem to care about Zaroff dying in the end, just as Zaroff didn't care about Rainsford's life.

I agree Sharon. Thanks as well!