What does 'theme' refer to in literature?

In literature, 'theme' refers to the central topic, subject, or message that recurs throughout a work. This overarching idea often provides insight into the work's deeper meanings and reveals the author's perspective on life and society. Themes can be universal concepts such as love, conflict, identity, or morality, and they often invite readers to think critically about the issues presented. By identifying the theme, readers can gain a greater understanding of the underlying messages and motives of the characters and plot, enriching their overall experience of the text.

The other options do not encapsulate the concept of theme. While characters, the author's background, and the setting contribute to a work's narrative and its interpretation, they do not represent the central ideas that define the theme. Character development, for example, supports the theme but isn't the theme itself. Similarly, the author’s experiences and the setting may influence the writing but are not the recurring messages or subjects of the work. Thus, the correct response focuses precisely on what a theme embodies in literature.