While many high school English teachers may not be familiar with teaching literary theory in their classes, Deborah Appleman’s book, Critical Encounters, asserts that teaching literary theory can only enhance the study of literature.  I know that studying literature has helped my analytical skills, and to consciously question what I am reading.  To have a class full of students who are automatically analyzing and constructively criticizing different texts is the fantasy of many English teachers!  I have finally realized that literary theory is a vehicle in which to consciously analyze literature from a different perspective or lens.  If we can be deliberate and straightforward with our students about literary theory, I believe that they will rise to the occasion and continue developing the way they see literature and their own lives.  One of the ways that we can do this is to choose a literary theory, such as feminism, and discuss it with students.  Then, ask them to write a statement about a female character as portrayed in the story.  After that, ask them to write another statement using the feminist point of view.  Compare and contrast the statements in order to highlight the differences.  I know that if class discussions are lacking, literary theories can help the students become passionate about what they are reading, and how it relates to their own lives.