What is a theme of The Thousand and One Nights? Why is it significant

The protagonists of many of these stories take competition very seriously; the most prominent example is in "The Three Princes and the Princess Nouronnihar." All three princes universally accept the idea of competing for the princess's hand in marriage, despite their family connection. There are also instances of less healthy competition, as between Ali Baba and Cassim. (Often in these stories, poor men see themselves as in competition with richer men.) In most cases, however, a competitive spirits helps men to discover their inner strength and thereby prosper. Competition was considered one of the best ways for a man to prove his honor and strength, and this idea is very much reflected in the tales of The Arabian Nights.