In literary analysis, what is a 'central idea' often referred to?

The term 'central idea' in literary analysis refers to the main argument or message that the text conveys. It captures the core meaning or the primary point the author is trying to communicate through their work. Identifying the central idea allows readers to understand the essence of the narrative or the thematic significance. This idea often reflects deeper insights into human experience, society, or the world, which the author articulates through various literary techniques such as character development, plot structure, and symbolism.

Considering the context of the other choices, while a universal theme may relate to broader ideas that resonate across multiple texts, it does not specifically define the central idea of a single work. The author’s perspective is important, as it provides context to how the message is conveyed, but it is not the same as the central idea itself. Characters' motivations can enhance a reader's understanding of the narrative but do not capture the overarching message independently. Therefore, the main argument or message stands as the most accurate representation of what a 'central idea' encapsulates in literary analysis.