New Criticism is a literary theory that emerged in the early to mid-20th century, focusing on the text itself rather than external factors like author intent or historical context. It emphasizes close reading, analyzing the structure, language, and imagery within a work to uncover its meaning. This approach values the text as an autonomous entity, encouraging readers to engage with the work on its own terms. Key figures in New Criticism include John Crowe Ransom, Cleanth Brooks, and T.S. Eliot. They argued that a poem or literary work should be examined for its formal elements, such as symbolism and irony, to appreciate its complexity and depth. This method has influenced literary studies and education, promoting a rigorous analysis of texts.