What term refers to the prevailing emotions or atmosphere of a work created by literary devices and elements such as setting?

The term that refers to the prevailing emotions or atmosphere of a literary work, shaped by various devices like setting, character, and imagery, is mood. Mood is the emotional landscape that a reader experiences while engaging with the text. It reflects the feelings a piece of writing evokes in the reader, and can be dark, cheerful, tense, serene, or any other emotional state, creating a specific ambiance throughout the work.

In contrast, theme refers to the central ideas or messages conveyed in the story, focusing more on the underlying concepts rather than the emotional feel. Voice pertains to the unique style or personality of the narrator, influencing how the story is told but not necessarily the emotional atmosphere. Tone, on the other hand, is the author's attitude toward the subject or audience, which can contribute to mood but is distinct in its focus on the author’s perspective rather than the emotional response elicited in the reader. Thus, mood accurately captures the essence of emotional experience in literature.