Introduction to Literary Criticism & Theory
Table of Contents
Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (2008) defines theory as a formal statement of rules on which a subject of study is based, or ideas that are suggested to explain a fact or event. It can also refer to an opinion or explanation. Similarly, Encarta Dictionaries 2009 defines theory as a body of rules, ideas, principles, and techniques that apply to a subject, distinct from actual practice. While something may be possible in theory, it may not always happen in practice. This demonstrates that theory consists of suggested ideas to explain various aspects. Literary criticism refers to the act of interpreting and studying literature, involving a critical analysis of a literary piece. Literary critics apply different theories to texts or essays to provide critical judgments or conclusions. Literary theory , also known as critical theory, encompasses the methods used in the literary criticism of various works. It involves following specific academic, scientific, or philosophical approaches…