What is theme in literature?
In literature, theme refers to the overarching idea, message, or lesson uncovered by reading a story. Authors don’t explicitly state the theme in their writing. Instead they use other literary elements, such as plot, characters, setting, conflict, and literary devices, to explore a theme that gives their story a deeper meaning. Themes in literature are universal, so they not only relate to the characters and events in the story, but readers can also apply these ideas to their own lives.