a. Critical Theory is using theories, approaches, or lenses that find meaning in art, culture, and literature. Critical theories are important because they can help you see things from different viewpoints and really find a true meaning of whatever you may be looking at.

b. Using these lenses may help me because I can then see things from a whole different view, taking in perspective, for example, when this object or thing was made, my personal opinion on it, its view on women, how it can relate to myths, etc. It can help you realize the pictures potential.