What does a literary narrative aim to achieve beyond merely telling a story?

A literary narrative aims to achieve much more than simply recounting events; it seeks to convey a meaningful message or theme that resonates with readers. This deeper purpose often involves exploring complex human experiences, emotions, and moral dilemmas, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and the world around them. By presenting characters, settings, and plots that communicate significant insights about life, society, or humanity itself, literary narratives can provoke thought, inspire empathy, and foster a greater understanding of various perspectives.

The other options fall short of this broader purpose. While providing entertainment is certainly a byproduct of a well-written narrative, it does not capture the depth and intention of literary works. Superficial plot twists may keep the reader's interest momentarily, but they lack the depth that meaningful storytelling encompasses. Additionally, focusing exclusively on character flaws may limit the narrative's exploration of broader themes, while a well-rounded story should encompass a range of character experiences and growth.