Final answer:
The theme of a story is its underlying message, which can be revealed through the conflict experienced by its characters. In literature, such as works by Mark Twain, themes often explore complex human experiences and require deep analysis of various elements within the text.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Theme in Literature
The theme of a story is the central message, insight, or observation the writer offers. When analyzing literature, such as a Mark Twain story, we consider how the conflict reveals a deeper meaning or message to the reader. In Twain's works, for instance, the theme might revolve around the importance of relying on one's own knowledge and training, as elucidated through the characters' experiences and the narrative's progression.
To determine a story's theme, analyze the conflict and consider how it shapes the characters and narrative. Ask yourself questions about what is repeated, how characters change, and what broader statements about life or humanity the story could be conveying. For example, in Twain's stories, the conflict between self-assurance and self-doubt is often a vehicle for expressing the theme.
A thorough examination of theme requires one to look beyond the surface of the text. It involves identifying imagery, symbolism, character development, and the story's resolution. Themes can be complex, offering a nuanced look at human nature, societal norms, or philosophical questions, with some narratives presenting multiple themes that interact or even conflict with one another to enrich the text's message.