Literary studies is the academic field that explores written works, such as novels, poems, and plays. It examines the themes, styles, and historical contexts of these texts to understand their meanings and significance. Scholars in this field analyze the language and structure of works by authors like William Shakespeare or Jane Austen, uncovering how their writing reflects societal values and human experiences. In addition to analyzing individual texts, literary studies also considers broader topics like literary theory and cultural studies. This allows researchers to explore how literature interacts with issues such as identity, power, and social change. Ultimately, literary studies enrich our appreciation of literature and its impact on society.