Literary theory is the study of the methods and principles used to analyze and interpret literature. It provides frameworks for understanding texts, exploring their meanings, and examining the cultural, historical, and social contexts in which they were created. Different theories, such as formalism, structuralism, and post-colonialism, offer various lenses through which readers can engage with literature. By applying these theories, readers can uncover deeper insights into characters, themes, and narrative techniques. Literary critics often use these approaches to evaluate works, helping to shape our understanding of literature's role in society and its impact on readers over time.