Literary theorists are scholars who study and analyze literature to understand its meaning, structure, and impact. They develop various frameworks and approaches, such as formalism, structuralism, and post-colonialism, to interpret texts. These theories help readers and critics explore how literature reflects cultural, social, and historical contexts. By applying different theoretical lenses, literary theorists can uncover deeper insights about characters, themes, and narrative techniques. Their work often influences how literature is taught in schools and universities, shaping the way we appreciate and critique works by authors like William Shakespeare and Toni Morrison.