Which of the following defines the term 'theme'?

The term 'theme' in literature refers to the central topic, subject, or message that runs throughout a narrative. It encompasses the underlying ideas or lessons that the author conveys through the characters, plot, and setting. A theme often explores universal concepts, such as love, conflict, identity, or morality, and serves to provoke thought and reflection in the reader. Identifying the theme helps readers to understand the deeper meanings of a text and the author's intent, allowing for a richer literary experience.

In contrast, a critical review of a text's elements focuses on analyzing various parts of the narrative without pinpointing the central message. The specific characters involved in the plot relate to the individuals driving the story forward, but they do not embody the overarching theme itself. Lastly, a narrative's chronological order pertains to how the events are arranged in time, which does not directly address the thematic essence of the story.