Which of the following is a feature of polyphonic music?

Polyphonic music is characterized by the presence of multiple, independent melodies that interact with one another. This texture allows for greater complexity and richness in the musical piece, as each melody can develop its own individual character while still contributing to a cohesive whole. This interaction between melodies contrasts with monophonic music, which features a single melody without any harmonic support.

In polyphony, the interplay of these melodies can create intricate counterpoints, where each melody complements and contrasts with the others. This is different from music that presents a single melody or includes harmony, as seen in monophonic or homophonic textures, respectively. Therefore, the essence of polyonic music lies in the coexistence of multiple melodic lines, making option C the defining characteristic of this musical style.