The examination of literature through the lens of class struggle and socio-economic factors constitutes a critical approach. This perspective analyzes how literary works reflect, reinforce, or challenge dominant ideologies and power structures within a society. For example, a novel portraying the stark disparities between the wealthy elite and the working class can be interpreted as a commentary on capitalist exploitation and the resultant social inequalities.
Understanding literature from this standpoint provides valuable insights into the historical context and the social forces that shape both the creation and reception of texts. It allows for a deeper comprehension of how economic systems influence individual experiences, social relationships, and cultural production. The historical development of this analytical method is rooted in the writings of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, and it has been further developed by various scholars to address contemporary societal issues.