How is "theme" defined in literature?

In literature, "theme" is defined as the central idea or underlying message that an author conveys through a narrative. It reflects the deeper meaning behind the events and characters in a story, often addressing universal concepts such as love, conflict, morality, or human nature. Themes can be explicit, articulated clearly in the text, or implicit, revealed through symbolism, character development, or plot dynamics. Identifying the theme allows readers to gain insight into the author's purpose and the broader commentary being made about life or society. The significance of theme transcends the specific events of the story, inviting interpretation and deeper thought about the human experience.