Which aspect of literature does the term 'theme' refer to?

The term 'theme' in literature refers to the underlying message or main idea conveyed by a work. It captures the central topics, issues, or moral lessons that the narrative explores, often reflecting broader human experiences, societal issues, or philosophical questions. Themes can be explicit, directly stated through dialogue or narrative, or implicit, requiring readers to infer the author's intentions and messages from the context and characters' experiences.

The other options focus on different elements of literature. The writer's style pertains to the author's unique way of expressing ideas, including their choice of language, tone, and narrative techniques. Plot development involves the sequence of events and how they unfold within the story, forming the structure and framework that drives the narrative forward. Character motivation refers to the reasons behind a character's actions and decisions within the story, often influencing their development and interactions with other characters. While these aspects contribute to the overall impact of a literary work, they are distinct from the theme, which encompasses the deeper significance of the story as a whole.