French literary theory is an academic field and set of methodological approaches originating primarily in France during the mid-to-late 20th century. It investigates the fundamental nature of literature, language, texts, and reading, often through interdisciplinary engagement with fields such as linguistics, psychoanalysis, philosophy, and structuralism/post-structuralism, challenging traditional notions of authorship, stable meaning, and objective interpretation. Its significance lies in its profound and lasting influence on literary studies and the broader humanities globally.