The Reception Theory and the Value of Adaptation in Literature and Visual Arts
Authors:-Sarika Tyagi
Abstract-This article explores the intersection of reception theory and the value of adaptation in literature, visual arts, music, and theater. Reception theory, pioneered by Hans Robert Jauss, shifts the focus from the creator to the audience, emphasizing the evolving cultural and personal contexts that shape how stories are interpreted. Adaptations serve as transformative dialogues between the original work, its reimagining, and contemporary audiences, ensuring stories remain relevant across time and space. Examples such as Jean Rhys’s Wide Sargasso Sea, Alfred Hitchcock’s Rebecca, and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton illustrate how adaptations reframe narratives to address new perspectives, cultural dynamics, and societal values. This article highlights how the reinterpretation of familiar tales enriches their meaning, engages diverse audiences, and underscores the timeless power of storytelling. By applying reception theory, the article demonstrates that the true value of adaptations lies in their ability to connect, challenge, and inspire audiences across generations.