Reception theory
A critical approach that emphasises the reader's active role in creating meaning rather than meaning being inherent in the text itself. Reception theory argues that different readers, times, and contexts produce different interpretations.
Real World
Shakespeare's *The Merchant of Venice* was performed approvingly for centuries, but post-Holocaust audiences began reading Shylock as a tragic victim of antisemitism — the same text, radically different meanings across historical moments.
Exam Focus
Reference reception theory to explain why your interpretation is valid even if it differs from a critic's; examiners reward awareness that meaning is not fixed.
How well did you know this?