How to Analyze and Interpret

Interpreting works in the humanities means looking beyond the surface to understand deeper meanings, symbols, and context.

Steps to Interpretation

1. Observe: What do you see, read, or hear?
2. Contextualize: When and where was it made? Who created it?
3. Analyze: What techniques, symbols, or themes are used?
4. Evaluate: What is the purpose or message?

Tools and Approaches

• Literary analysis (e.g., theme, motif, character development)
• Art criticism (e.g., formal analysis, historical context)
• Music analysis (e.g., melody, rhythm, instrumentation)

Why Interpretation Matters

Being able to interpret humanities works helps you appreciate their richness and apply critical thinking in all areas of life.

Applications

• Understanding symbolism in political cartoons.
• Interpreting song lyrics as social commentary.