Makra Choria's primary theme is the conflict between good and evil. Some characters are obviously virtuous—Choria, Bethor, Orinath, Willowill, Petriana, and various minor characters who assist Choria and Theora in their journeys. Others are just as obviously evil—Ellida, the Searchers, Theora's childhood tutor, and Petriana's grandson. At first Theora too appears to represent unmitigated evil, but Mayhar suggests that Theora also possesses some of the good qualities of her father and sister. Theora is transformed by her experiences and so is granted a kind of redemption.

A secondary theme is initiation or coming of age. Even as a child, Choria is extremely perceptive, aware of her sister's selfishness and potential cruelty. While she seems less obsessed with power than is Theora, Choria too must learn that wisdom is more valuable than the Gift of the Makraitis. In the long run...