What does intertextuality refer to in literature?

Intertextuality in literature refers to the connections and relationships between different texts. This concept highlights how texts influence each other through references, allusions, quotations, and shared themes or structures. It suggests that no text exists in isolation; instead, they are part of a larger dialogue with other works, cultural contexts, and historical moments.

By studying intertextuality, readers can gain a deeper understanding of how meanings are shaped and transformed across various texts, leading to enriched interpretations. This interconnectedness can also shed light on the way authors engage with previous works, often reinterpreting them or responding to their ideas.

The other options do not capture the essence of intertextuality. The uniqueness of a single text focuses on its individual characteristics rather than its relationship with others. The chronological structure of a narrative pertains to the arrangement of events within that particular narrative rather than addressing how texts relate. Finally, while themes are important, they are not the core concept of intertextuality, which emphasizes the connections and interactions between texts over their thematic elements.