Final answer:
Occasional moments of light or hope in literature serve to offer relief, highlight character development, and reinforce thematic elements, such as providing contrast to darker themes and granting deeper insight into characters' motivations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The occasional moments of light or hope in a literary work can serve multiple purposes. They might give the reader hope, acting as a respite from the tension and darkness of the plot, which can make the narrative more relatable and endearing. These moments can also heighten the symbol of darkness by providing a contrast that accentuates the darker themes when they return. Furthermore, moments of light or hope can highlight different characters, revealing personal growth or hidden facets of their personalities that may not be evident in more dire circumstances.
For example, in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, the interplay of light and dark imagery might illuminate character motivations and thematic elements, using biblical symbolism to hint at deeper meanings behind the narrative. The inclusion of these moments is not merely for narrative relief but also serves as a narrative device to enrich the story, suggest character development, or reinforce the work's underlying messages. Likewise, in theatrical settings, lighting techniques can also draw attention to the fact that the audience is witnessing an interpretation of reality, thus adding layers to the viewers' experience.