"Critical Theory" explores the powerful tools of literary theory for understanding literature and culture, revealing hidden assumptions about power and identity.
It examines how these theories dissect texts and uncover societal biases that perpetuate cultural norms.
The book focuses on three influential schools: structuralism, which emphasizes the underlying systems of language; post-colonialism, which examines the impact of colonialism on narratives; and feminism, which critiques patriarchal ideologies.
The book argues that engaging with diverse theoretical lenses enriches our understanding of literature and empowers critical examination of the world.
It begins by introducing foundational concepts before delving into structuralism, post-colonialism, and feminism, exploring their historical development, core tenets, and impact on literary analysis.
Examples from canonical and contemporary works demonstrate how each framework uncovers new layers of meaning.
Concluding chapters synthesize these lenses, demonstrating how combined approaches reveal nuanced interpretations.
This approach equips readers with tools to analyze texts and promote social awareness, going beyond literature to enhance critical thinking and foster a more inclusive society.
