What is a critical lens?

A critical lens refers to a specific perspective or framework that readers use to analyze and interpret literary works and their underlying themes. This approach can be grounded in various critical theories, such as feminist, Marxist, psychoanalytic, or post-colonial critiques. By using a critical lens, readers examine how aspects of the text relate to broader social, political, or psychological issues, ultimately enriching their understanding of the text and its significance. It allows for deeper engagement with the material and highlights connections that may not be immediately apparent.

The other options do not convey the depth and focus of a critical lens. An overview of a literary work's plot and characters is simply a summary and does not involve critical analysis. A text's historical background offers context but lacks the analytical perspective necessary for deeper literary interpretation. Similarly, a method of creative writing pertains to composition techniques rather than analysis. Thus, the perspective offered by a critical lens is pivotal for insightful literary exploration.