A recurring theme or element in music or literature that is associated with a particular idea, character, or situation.

Origin: The word 'leitmotif' originates from the German word 'Leitmotiv', composed of 'leiten' (to lead) and 'Motiv' (motive), literally meaning 'leading motive'. It was first used in the 19th century.Historical and Cultural Context: The term became prominent in the world of opera, particularly through the works of composer Richard Wagner, who used it to signify musical themes that represent characters or ideas.Evolution: Originally a musical term, 'leitmotif' has evolved to describe any recurring theme in various art forms, including literature and film. Cognates can be found in other Germanic languages, with similar meanings.Modern Relevance: Today, 'leitmotif' is widely used in discussions of music, film, and literature to describe recurring thematic elements. It is especially popular in film studies, where it describes musical cues associated with characters or situations.

Richard Wagner's use of leitmotifs in his operas was revolutionary, influencing not only music but also storytelling techniques in modern cinema.