How can plot and character development help you predict a novel’s theme?
by hinting at ideas about what the conflict is and how the main characters are likely to deal with it
by leading you to believe that the story is about one thing when it’s about something else
by creating empathy for the characters and the situations they are facing
by helping you understand where the story is set and why the characters behave the way they do
All of the options listed can help in predicting a novel's theme, but the first two options are more directly related to plot, while the last two options are more related to character development.
Plot development can provide hints about the conflict and how the main characters are likely to deal with it. The conflict often reflects the underlying theme of the novel. By analyzing the plot, readers can identify the struggles and challenges the characters face, leading to a deeper understanding of the central message or theme the author is conveying.
Character development can also offer insights into the theme of a novel. By creating empathy for the characters and their situations, readers can better understand their motivations and actions. Through the characters, authors can explore various themes and ideas. Understanding the characters' perspectives and experiences can provide a glimpse into the larger themes the author is addressing.
In addition, plot and character development can indirectly help readers understand the context and background of the story, aiding in predicting the novel's theme. The setting and the characters' behavior may provide clues about the underlying issues the story addresses and the central ideas the author wants to convey.
Therefore, both plot and character development are integral in predicting a novel's theme.