Literary Theory
Graduate approaches to reading: how critical lenses like formalism and reader-response reshape a text.
Prof. Adaeze Obi
Professor of Literary Theory
Formalism & Close Reading
The text itself, on its own terms.
Reader-Response Criticism
Meaning made in the act of reading.
Postcolonial Theory
Reading literature after empire.
Structuralism & Deconstruction
Meaning from systems — and its unraveling.
Common questions
Who is "Literary Theory" for?
It is written for learners at Master's level (Graduate), and for anyone older who wants a clear refresher on english. Graduate approaches to reading: how critical lenses like formalism and reader-response reshape a text. There is no application or entry test — you can start the first lesson straight away.
How long does the course take?
There are 4 lessons totalling 37 minutes of reading and quizzes, laid out over 2 units. You can move at your own pace — progress is saved as you go.
What do I need to know before starting?
No prior coursework is assumed. The course opens with "Formalism", covering close reading and the text itself, so the foundations are built in rather than expected.
Is the course free?
Yes. Every course on Monster Class is completely free, with no credit card, trial period or paywall. Creating a free account simply saves your progress, XP and place on the leaderboard across devices.