Introduction
Reader Response Theory is a theory that focuses on the reader and their experience in literary works. The difference from other theories is that the main focus is not on the author and their works. Through this theory, the reader complements the work with their interpretation and gives a special literary meaning. Literature from the reader’s point of view acquires a particular purpose since, thanks to their point of view, which was not overlooked by the author, the reader creates their own picture of what is happening. Like any approach, this theory has its advantages and disadvantages, which will be described in this study.
Main body
Readers interpret the text in their own way is also seen as a lack of theory. This is because readers do not acquire the knowledge that the author has invested in his work. In addition, readers may not understand the original meaning embedded in the text by the creator. Thus, readers miss the new experience that the author sought to convey through their text.
The advantage of this theory is that people can think critically about the text and provide their point of view. Woodruff and Griffin (2017) state that Reader Response Theory generates students’ interest in reading and critical thinking. Readers have an active ability to think and ponder the provided text. In addition, this approach to reading allows one to read more meaningfully and accept the experience described by the author (Mart, 2019). The described advantages undoubtedly demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach to reading.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many different approaches to reading, and they all have their advantages and disadvantages. Reader Response Theory is the most robust and most effective reading theory, even despite the existing shortcomings. It allows to engage readers in an exciting reading process and form their own opinion about the work. In literature lessons, this approach is actively used and allows students to adopt the experience laid down by the author and reveal their abilities for critical thinking.
References
Mart, C. (2019). Reader-response Theory and literature discussions: a springboard for exploring literary texts. The New Educational Review, 1(1), 78-87. Web.
Woodruff, A. & Griffin, R. (2017). Reader response in secondary settings: Increasing comprehension through meaningful interactions with literary texts. Texas Journal of Literacy Education, 5(2), 108-116. Web.