Marxist Critical Theory
Typically attributed to Karl Marx, the marxist critical theory focuses primarily on economic structure, social class divide, and the exploitation of lower class laborers by the upper class. It was this theories idea that a classless system and distribution of wealth to be ideal.This is especially prominent in todays economy with much of the wealth distribution accumulating in the upperclass. It demonstrates Marxism in this wide division between the upperclass and the lower-class.
Archetypal Critical Theory
This theory can be attributed to the theorist Carl Jung, when referencing universal archetypes. In ancient times myth/archetypes were necessary in order to make sense of the world around them(i.e. unexplainable events could be explained away with a myth). From Greek myth to ancient Egyptian myth, Myth theory is still relevant in today’s storytelling as it mimics that of myths from the past. It is especially relevant today when considering the mono-myth, or Hero’s journey, as many authors and creatives draw from this format in order to plot their own texts.
Psychoanalytic Critical Theory
Psychoanalytic Critical Theory
Initially introduced by Sigmund Freud, the psychoanalytic theory focuses solely on the subconscious effecting conscious actions (i.e. Childhood events effecting future circumstances). This theory can also be seen and applied in modern psychology within the neo-freudian perspective. It is through this theory that we are able to even help diagnose and overcome certain past traumas which is extremely helpful in our society today (especially with the rapid increase in mental illness due to social media).
Postmodern with a captital P 