Which of the following is the best description of the difference between the theme and central idea of a story?

Question

a. the theme refers to story elements while the central idea refers to a messages
b. The theme and central idea are usually expressions of the same ideas
c. The central idea of a story is derived from details of the story's theme
d. The theme is universal while the central idea is specific to the story

Answer 1

The best description of the difference between the theme and the central idea of a story is:

d. The theme is universal while the central idea is specific to the story.

The theme encompasses broader, universal concepts or messages that can apply to many situations, whereas the central idea is more focused and specific to the particular story being told.