What is theme?

a story's time and place

The correct response is: the underlying meaning or message in a literary work.

The correct answer is: the underlying meaning or message in a literary work.

To understand the concept of theme, you need to analyze the underlying meaning or message that the author is trying to convey in their writing. It goes beyond just the plot or the setting of the story. Themes often explore universal ideas, emotions, or values that are relatable to readers.

To identify the theme of a literary work, you can follow these steps:

1. Read and comprehend the text: Make sure you have a clear understanding of the story or literary work.
2. Identify key events and details: Look for recurring ideas, symbols, or motifs that appear throughout the story.
3. Consider character motivations: Analyze the actions, decisions, and beliefs of the characters and how they contribute to the overall message.
4. Evaluate the author's purpose: Reflect on the author's writing choices, the tone of the work, and the issues or topics they address.
5. Summarize the message: Based on your analysis, articulate the central idea or message that the author is trying to communicate.

Remember that different readers may interpret themes differently, as they can be subjective. However, solid evidence from the text should support your interpretation.