Which of the following best describes the difference between literary criticism and literary theory?

A. Literary criticism is concerned only with the meaning of a literary work, while literary theory is concerned only with the structure of a literary work.
B. Literary criticism draws upon research derived from sources outside literature, while literary theory draws upon sources within a text.
C. Literary criticism is concerned with how characters in a text act, while literary theory is concerned with why characters act.
D. Literary theory is concerned with the method used to interpret a work, while literary criticism is the application of literary theory.

Correct Answer: Literary theory is concerned with the method used to interpret a work, while literary criticism is the application of literary theory. ✔

Last Updated: August 21, 2020