English for Academic & Professional Purposes_Quarter 1/3

1. Critical Theories in
Writing a Critique
Prepared by: Mrs. Kharissa May C. Sosoter

2. Defining and Explaining Critical Theories
• Critical theories are frameworks
that allow us to examine and
analyze various aspects of society,
literature, and other forms of
media. They help us uncover
hidden power dynamics, biases,
and assumptions.
• Through critical theories, we can
explore the underlying socio-
political, historical, and cultural
contexts that shape our
understanding of texts and society.

3. Understanding the Purpose of Critical
Theories
• The purpose of critical theories in writing
a critique is to go beyond a surface-level
analysis and uncover deeper meanings
and implications.
• Critical theories challenge dominant
narratives and encourage critical
thinking, promoting a more inclusive and
nuanced understanding of texts and
society.
• They allow us to question power
structures, uncover biases, and provide
alternative perspectives that are often
marginalized or ignored.

4. Identifying Different Critical Theories
• 1. Feminist theory: Examines the role of gender in literature and society,
highlighting issues of inequality and discrimination.
• 2. Postcolonial theory: Focuses on the legacy of colonialism, exploring how it
influences power dynamics, identity formation, and cultural representation.
• 3. Marxist theory: Analyzes the economic and class structures in literature and
society, emphasizing the exploitation of the working class by the ruling class.
• 4. Queer theory: Critically examines the construction of sexual identities and
challenges heteronormativity in literature and society.
• 5. Critical race theory: Explores the intersections of race, power, and privilege,
uncovering racial biases and promoting social justice.

5. Applying Critical Theories in Analyzing a Peer's Written
Work
• When analyzing a peer's written work,
we can apply critical theories to identify
underlying biases, power dynamics, and
social issues.
• By critically examining the text, we can
provide constructive feedback that goes
beyond surface-level observations,
helping our peers improve their writing
and encouraging them to consider
different perspectives.
• Applying critical theories also enhances
our own understanding of texts and
society, fostering a more critical and
informed approach to reading and
writing.

6. Considering Context and Power Dynamics in
Critiques
• Context: When writing a critique, it is important
to consider the social, historical, and cultural
context in which the text was created. This
helps us understand the intentions, limitations,
and influences that shape the text.
• Power Dynamics: We must also be aware of
power dynamics, such as privilege and
marginalization, that may influence the
creation, interpretation, and reception of a text.
This helps us identify biases and unequal
power relations.
• By considering context and power dynamics,
we can provide a more nuanced and fair
critique that takes into account the complexities
of the text and its social implications.

7. Descriptive Critique vs. Critical Critique
• Descriptive Critique: Focuses on
summarizing and describing the
text without offering a deep
analysis or evaluation. It provides
an objective overview of the text's
content.
• Critical Critique: Goes beyond
description and offers a detailed
analysis and evaluation of the text.
It questions assumptions, identifies
biases, and provides alternative
perspectives.

8. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Critical
Theories
• To evaluate the effectiveness of critical theories, we can consider
the extent to which they help us uncover hidden meanings,
challenge dominant narratives, and promote critical thinking.
• We can also assess their ability to provide alternative perspectives,
reveal power dynamics and biases, and contribute to a more
inclusive and equitable understanding of texts and society.

9. Assessing Insights and New Perspectives
Gained from Critical Theories
• By engaging with critical theories, we gain
insights into the complexities of texts and
society that may have been overlooked
previously.
• We also develop a more empathetic and
inclusive mindset, appreciating the diverse
perspectives and experiences that shape
our understanding of the world.
• Critical theories empower us to challenge
the status quo, advocate for social change,
and contribute meaningfully to academic
and professional discourse.

10. Conclusion and Recap of Key Points
• Critical theories provide us with powerful tools to critically analyze
texts and uncover hidden meanings, biases, and power dynamics.
• They allow us to challenge dominant narratives, promote social
justice, and foster a more inclusive and equitable understanding of
texts and society.
• By applying critical theories, we can provide thoughtful and
constructive critiques that go beyond surface-level observations,
helping us and our peers develop a more critical and informed
approach to writing and analysis.

11. Fun Facts about Famous Critics and Critical
Theories
• 1. Roland Barthes: A famous French literary critic known for
his work on semiotics and the analysis of cultural texts.
• 2. Bell Hooks: An influential feminist critic who challenged
the exclusion of Black women in feminist theory and
advocated for intersectionality.
• 3. Edward Said: A Palestinian-American critic who coined
the term 'Orientalism' and examined the representation of the
East in Western literature.
• 4. Judith Butler: A philosopher and gender theorist who
introduced the concept of gender performativity and
questioned the binary understanding of gender.
• 5. Michel Foucault: A French philosopher known for his
theories on power, knowledge, and discourse, particularly in
relation to institutions and social control.