How does cultural context affect the interpretation of a text?

Cultural context plays a pivotal role in shaping how a text is interpreted. Each reader brings their own experiences, beliefs, and cultural background to their understanding of a text, which can significantly influence their interpretations. For instance, references, symbols, and themes in a text may resonate differently depending on a reader's cultural heritage or personal experiences. This diversity in perspective allows for a rich tapestry of interpretations, reflecting the complexity of human experience and thought.

In contrast, the other options suggest a level of uniformity or simplification that doesn't account for the intricate ways in which culture impacts understanding. A shared understanding or a "cookie-cutter" interpretation implies that everyone would interpret a text the same way, which overlooks the unique lens each person applies. Additionally, simplifying complex themes runs counter to the depth that cultural context can provide, as it often adds layers of meaning rather than reducing them.