What is a major idea broad enough to cover the entire scope of a literary work known as?

A major idea broad enough to cover the entire scope of a literary work is known as the theme. The theme encapsulates the underlying message or insight about life that the author wishes to convey through the narrative, characters, and events of the story. It is often universal and can relate to fundamental human experiences, such as love, conflict, identity, or morality. Unlike a topic, which may simply refer to the subject matter of the text, the theme seeks to explore deeper meanings and connections that resonate beyond the specifics of the plot. This allows readers to engage with the work on a more profound level, encouraging reflection and interpretation of the ideas presented throughout the literature.