How is the term 'theme' defined in literature?

The term 'theme' in literature is defined as the central idea or underlying message that the author communicates through their work. This can encompass various insights about life, society, or human nature that are woven throughout the narrative and can be understood at a deeper level by analyzing the characters, events, and settings. Identifying the theme allows readers to connect with the work on a more profound level and provides insight into the author's intentions and the potential moral lessons of the story.

In contrast, the emotional tone focuses on the mood conveyed through language and style, but does not capture the fundamental message of the work. The plot refers to the sequence of events and actions within the story, which is distinct from the thematic elements that provide meaning. Lastly, the target audience pertains to who the literature is intended for, which is unrelated to the theme itself. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why 'theme' is best understood as the central idea or underlying message in literary analysis.