Which device is often used to set the overall feeling in a story?

The correct choice is the mood because it directly relates to the atmosphere or emotional quality that envelops a story. The mood is established through various elements such as the setting, word choice, and tone and can influence how readers feel as they engage with the narrative. For instance, a story set in a dark, stormy setting with ominous language may create a suspenseful mood, while a bright, cheerful setting with uplifting language can evoke joy.

While theme refers to the underlying message or central idea of the story, which can inform the mood, it is not the same as the mood itself. Plot concerns the sequence of events and actions within the narrative, and characterization focuses on how characters are developed and portrayed. Although all these elements contribute to the overall experience of a story, the mood is specifically what sets the emotional tone for readers.