Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

What does the Transactional Theory of Literary Works emphasize?

1. Ignoring the reader’s personal experiences

2. Reading as a transaction between the reader and the text

3. Reading only classic literature

4. Reading as a one-way interaction with the text

The correct answer is: Reading as a transaction between the reader and the text

The Transactional Theory of Literary Works emphasizes reading as a transaction between the reader and the text. This theory posits that meaning is not solely embedded within the words of the text but is created through the interaction between the reader's personal experiences, feelings, and interpretations and the text itself. This perspective highlights the active role of the reader in constructing meaning, suggesting that each reading experience is unique and influenced by the reader's background, context, and emotional state. In this view, literature is seen as a dynamic process rather than a static object. The reader brings their own interpretations to the text, which can lead to various meanings derived from the same piece of literature. This understanding promotes a more engaged and personal reading experience, fostering a deeper appreciation of the text's dimensions. The alternatives presented do not align with the central tenets of this theory. Ignoring the reader's personal experiences disregards the essential role those experiences play in understanding a text. Focusing only on classic literature limits the scope of works that can be analyzed through this lens, while viewing reading as a one-way interaction diminishes the active engagement necessary for a true transactional reading experience.