The ___ of a work is what it says about a particular subject or topic. time period
theme
event
character

The THEME of work is what it says about a particular subject or topic.

answer: the gettysburg address is a speech delivered by abraham lincoln at the november 19, 1863, dedication of soldier’s national cemetery, a cemetery for union soldiers killed at the battle of gettysburg during the american civil war.

explanation:

cockroaches and rats often are a symbol for things that are disgusting or vile. though i don't know which play you are talking about, i hope this !