How might the works from different regions vary and what themes might they have in common

Works and stories from different regions might have very different elements depending on the cultures of the regions. 

For example, if a particular area of the world is very hot and there is quite a bit of rain there, stories might focus on the main characters learning to navigate a tropical rain forest, with the animals that would be found there. By contrast, a story that is set in the most northern parts of the world might focus on characters learning to build shelters that would keep them warm, or finding food in extreme conditions.

Themes that might be in common are considered "universal" like the idea of characters learning right from wrong, or discovering consequences of bad choices, or understanding the nature of "gods" or other spirits. Even though cultural elements may be different, the themes are the same.