What does the term 'theme' refer to in literature?

In literature, the term 'theme' refers to the central topic or idea that underpins a work. It is the deeper message or insight that the author conveys through the narrative. Themes can explore universal concepts such as love, conflict, identity, and morality, allowing readers to connect with the text on a more profound level.

Understanding the theme of a piece helps to illuminate the author’s intentions and the overarching message they want to communicate. While the conflict, sequence of events, and setting are all important elements of a story, they serve different functions in the narrative. The theme, however, is what unifies these elements and gives them meaning within the broader context of the work.