Final answer:
Theme is the literary term that describes an underlying idea or message that runs throughout a work of literature.
Step-by-step explanation:
Theme is the literary term that describes an underlying idea or message that runs throughout a work of literature. It is the central topic or subject of a story and can often be inferred by looking at the characters, setting, and events in the text.
For example, in the fairy tale 'Little Red Riding Hood,' the theme is the importance of listening to warnings. This theme is conveyed through the actions of Little Red Riding Hood, who disobeys her mother's instructions and ends up in danger.
Other examples of themes in literature include love, courage, betrayal, and coming of age.
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