What does the term "thirty pieces of silver" symbolize in literature?

The term "thirty pieces of silver" symbolizes payment for treachery and betrayal, originating from the biblical account of Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus Christ for this amount. This phrase has transcended its historical context to represent any act of betrayal where one is willing to sell out a friend or cause for personal gain. In literature, it often evokes themes of moral corruption, the human capacity for deceit, and the consequences of greed.

This symbolism is deeply rooted in its association with one of the most infamous betrayals in history, making it a powerful literary motif that conveys the idea that one's integrity can be compromised for a relatively small reward. The other options do not align with this specific connotation associated with the term, as they suggest notions of generosity, achievement, or wisdom, which divert from the central theme of betrayal inherent in the phrase.