Final answer:
Universal themes in literature are derived from common fears, archetypal characters, drives and desires, and shared experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Universal themes in literature are often derived from sources such as common fears, archetypal characters, drives and desires, and shared experiences. Common fears, such as the fear of death or the fear of the unknown, are universal themes that resonate with people from different cultures. Archetypal characters, like the hero or the trickster, appear in folklore and fairy tales across cultures, representing universal aspects of human nature. Drives and desires, such as the desire for love or the desire for power, also serve as universal themes that are explored in literature. Lastly, shared experiences, like the journey towards independence or the pursuit of mastery, are universal themes that connect people across different cultures and societies.