Reader-Response Theory
Reader-Response Theory is a literary theory that emphasizes the reader's role in interpreting a text. It suggests that meaning is not solely derived from the author's intentions or the text itself, but is created through the reader's personal experiences, emotions, and thoughts. This approach highlights the active participation of readers in making sense of literature.
This theory contrasts with other literary theories, such as Formalism, which focus on the text's structure and language. Prominent figures in Reader-Response Theory include Stanley Fish and Louise Rosenblatt, who argue that each reader's unique perspective shapes their understanding of a work, making the reading experience subjective and dynamic.