literary theme
[/ˈlɪtəreri θiːm/]
nounpl: literary themes
tema literário
1. A central idea or underlying meaning that recurs throughout a literary work, such as a novel, poem, play, or short story
The literary theme of redemption appears throughout the novel as the protagonist seeks forgiveness.
O tema literário da redenção aparece ao longo do romance enquanto o protagonista busca perdão.
2. A recurring subject, idea, or pattern that develops and evolves within a text and connects to the work's broader message or purpose
Love and betrayal is a literary theme that Shakespeare explores in many of his plays.
Amor e traição é um tema literário que Shakespeare explora em muitas de suas peças.
3. An abstract concept or motif that gives coherence and meaning to the narrative elements of a work
The literary theme of mortality haunts every chapter of the gothic novel.
O tema literário da mortalidade assombra cada capítulo do romance gótico.
In both Brazilian and American literary education, understanding literary themes is fundamental to textual analysis. Themes are typically explored in high school and university literature courses as a way to understand deeper meanings beyond plot. In Brazilian Portuguese academic contexts, 'tema literário' is the standard terminology used in canonical works of literature from both lusophone and international authors.
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →