Define 'theme' in literature.

In literature, the term 'theme' refers to the central idea or underlying message that the author wishes to convey through their work. It encompasses the broader insights into life, society, or human nature that emerge from the narrative and characters. Themes can be explicit, directly stated, or implicit, requiring readers to infer them through analysis of the content, character development, and plot progression.

Identifying the theme helps readers understand the deeper significance of the story beyond just the events that unfold. For instance, a theme might explore concepts like love, redemption, conflict, identity, or human resilience. As such, recognizing the theme enriches the reading experience, allowing for a more profound and nuanced interpretation of the text.

The other options touch on relevant aspects of storytelling but do not encapsulate the essence of what constitutes a theme. The main character's journey pertains more to character development, the plot twist relates to unexpected developments within the storyline, and the setting and background provide context but do not convey the overarching message or idea of a narrative.