Which term refers to the overall message or lesson conveyed in a literary work?

The term that refers to the overall message or lesson conveyed in a literary work is "theme." The theme is the underlying idea or central insight that the author intends to communicate through their storytelling. It often reflects broader concepts about life, society, or human nature, and it invites readers to think critically about the text and its implications.

For example, in many stories, themes can include ideas like the struggle for identity, the consequences of choices, or the importance of friendship. Identifying the theme allows readers to connect more deeply with the text and to understand its significance beyond just the events that take place.

Characterization pertains to how characters are developed and portrayed in a narrative, which contributes to the overall story but does not encapsulate the main message itself. Plot describes the sequence of events and actions that take place in a story, while setting refers to the time and place in which the story occurs. While these elements are critical to storytelling, they do not convey the core lesson or message in the same way that theme does.