Final answer:
The theme of a story provides an underlying message about life or human nature. It is often inferred from the story's events and characters, and it can encompass a range of topics from trusting one's abilities, recognizing the truth, promoting cooperation, to understanding human interaction with the environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The underlying message about life or human nature in a story is often referred to as the theme. This can be a moral lesson, a commentary on society, or an observation about human behavior. In many stories, the theme is not explicitly stated but rather inferred from the story's events, characters, and dialogue.
For instance, in Twain's narrative, the theme stresses the importance of relying on one's acquired knowledge and training instead of giving into fear or self-doubt. This theme is portrayed through a character conflict, essentially suggesting that individuals should trust their abilities and instincts.
In addition to this, the theme might suggest a philosophical view, like Socrates's allegory suggesting that everyone is capable of knowing the truth but are often blinded by their perceptions. There can also be themes related to morality and nature, emphasizing cooperation and care for others as part of human survival, or even themes highlighting how humans interact with their environment and shape it.
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