Reception Theory is a framework in literary and media studies that focuses on how audiences interpret and understand texts. It emphasizes that meaning is not solely created by the author but is also shaped by the reader's or viewer's experiences, cultural background, and context. This theory suggests that different audiences can derive various meanings from the same work, highlighting the active role of the audience in the process of interpretation. Developed in the mid-20th century, Reception Theory draws on ideas from Hans Robert Jauss and Wolfgang Iser, who argued that a text's significance evolves over time as it interacts with different audiences. This approach encourages scholars to consider how factors like historical context, social norms, and individual perspectives influence the reception of literature and media, making it a valuable tool for understanding cultural dynamics.