What effects of theme in literature can help in character analysis?

Choosing the option that provides insight into the values and attitudes of characters is particularly significant for character analysis because themes often serve as reflective lenses through which characters' motivations, conflicts, and developments can be understood. By examining how a character embodies or responds to a particular theme—such as love, loss, identity, or power—readers can gain a deeper understanding of what drives their decisions and actions throughout the narrative.

For instance, if a theme revolves around the struggle for identity, analyzing characters through this lens can reveal their internal conflicts, desires, and the challenges they face. This thematic insight allows readers to see how characters may represent broader societal issues or personal journeys, ultimately enriching the analysis of their complexities and depth.

While understanding a plot's structure, revealing narrative connections, and providing social context are valuable elements of literary analysis, they do not directly contribute as effectively to an understanding of the characters' personal values and attitudes as thematic insight does. This differentiation underscores why the selected option is crucial for character analysis in literature.