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I think 17,21 is really the only theme of the crossword. Nearly all the answers represent people who are either examples of all of them (12a, 13a, 13d. 22a), examples of one of them (10a, 11a, 16d, 24a, 27d, and in a way, 20a)), or related to them (19a, 25d). I think you could even squeeze in 1d, 8d, and 23d, if you're willing to be more gender-fluid. I'm sure I've missed a few, but that's enough Googling for the night. It's probably the most educational crossword I've done.

That's brilliant, well spotted Rainman 👍

Well done, rainman, I'm sure you're correct.
Next, I had to wonder: do the grid locations of the thematic solutions exhibit 5? Quite a few do, so I briefly got excited, but there are too many exceptions. 😞

Enjoyed this. I had hoped 23d was the theme as the work was set near where I live and some of the streets round here are named after various characters.

Nice summary Rainman. Before I read your summary I had decided that some of the theme are 17/21’s while others are just 21’s or related to 21s. 4d is also a 21 in a different sense.

The wordplay in 24a is particularly clever given the strong connection between Alcott (who cropped up in the cryptic by Imogen on Tuesday this week I recall) and this person.
Cheers all!

Just on first read through so no clue as to the theme yet. But assuming it is an anagram, why Shakesperian threesome for 22a? Or am I barking up the wrong tree?

Rocky, yes to anagram, it’s a Macbeth reference

And I even studied it for o level. Count me in to the Philistines club.

Very much enjoyed this week's theme, especially after last Saturday's effort from Paul.

I was delayed by having the wrong "period" in 15d. On correcting that, most of the NE then went in.

However I have no idea for 10a. Hints, please?

btw 20a just misses being thematic!