What is defined as the underlying message or main idea in a narrative?

The underlying message or main idea in a narrative is referred to as the theme. The theme encapsulates the central insight or moral that the author conveys through the story, often reflecting universal ideas about life, society, or human nature. It serves as the lens through which readers can interpret the characters’ actions, the plot, and the overall narrative arc. For example, themes can explore concepts such as love, loss, courage, or the struggle between good and evil, providing deeper meaning to the experiences portrayed in the story.

In contrast, setting pertains to the time and place in which the story occurs, while character focuses on the individuals who inhabit the narrative and their development throughout the plot. Conflict involves the challenges or obstacles faced by the characters, driving the narrative forward, but it does not represent the overarching message of the work. Understanding the difference helps readers appreciate how the theme connects all aspects of a narrative together.