The document introduces different literary theories, focusing on Marxist, feminist, and postcolonial perspectives. It emphasizes how these lenses can influence the understanding of literature and the importance of examining power dynamics in storytelling. The text invites students to engage with these theories in their reading, writing, and discussions throughout the year.

1. Literary Theory for Middle SchoolConsider this

2. DIFFERENT KINDS OF LENSES

3. Power is where the money is.Marxist literary theory

4. Women aren’t allowed access to power.FEMINIST LITERARY THEORY

5. Christopher Columbus didn’t discover America. He seized it.POSTCOLONIALISM

6. So, what does Christopher Columbus or Marx or….women….have to do with my reading a book?

7. Good question.

8. She had to look through the Seeing Stone so that she could see things as they really are.Remember coraline?

9. And at some movies, you have to wear special glassesif you want to see the action in a more lifelike way.

10. There’s way more toMarxist Feministand PostcolonialistLiterary Theorythan we’re going to talk about this year.None of this is that simple

11. But we are going to talk about MarxistFeministand PostcolonialistLiterary Theory.As we read. As we write. As we discuss. As we think.

12. Ready?