Literary criticism is the in-depth study, evaluation, and interpretation of literature, often shaped by literary theory—the philosophical analysis of literature's goals and methods. Its roots extend to the classical period, notably with Aristotle's Poetics in the 4th century BC, which introduced foundational concepts such as mimesis and catharsis.
After medieval criticism often focused on religious texts, the Renaissance saw a revival of classical ideas and the profound influence of Aristotle's work following its recovery in 1498. By the 17th century, the Baroque movement began to challenge long-held classical principles of unity and harmony, instead favoring transgressive and extreme aesthetics. Today, literary critics share their insights through diverse channels, ranging from academic journals to widely read publications like The New York Times Book Review.