Final answer:
The theme of 'the envier and the envied' is most accurately described as 'jealousy and rivalry,' reflecting the conflict and tension that stems from one character's covetous feelings towards another.
Step-by-step explanation:
The theme of a story involving characters described as 'the envier and the envied' typically revolves around jealousy and rivalry. These elements indicate a dynamic where one character covets the attributes or possessions of another, leading to tension and conflict between them. This can manifest in various forms such as competition, malcontent, and actions driven by the desire to outdo or undermine the envied party.
In the context of the options provided, the most appropriate theme that aligns with 'the envier and the envied' is unequivocally A. Jealousy and rivalry. This theme reflects the destructive and often self-deprecating effects of coveting another's success or advantages, and is a common motif in literature that explores the darker aspects of human relationships.