textual criticism
noun
1
: the study of a literary work that aims to establish the original text
2
: a critical study of literature emphasizing a close reading and analysis of the text
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web Ophelia has been, for centuries, the person in the text most considered for reinterpretations and textual criticism. 
Julie Muncy, WIRED, 8 Aug. 2019 First, the textual criticism of the Bible, originating in Germany and spreading throughout the West, undermined the Biblical foundation of Western Christianity. Garland Tucker, National Review, 21 Oct. 2017
Julie Muncy, WIRED, 8 Aug. 2019 First, the textual criticism of the Bible, originating in Germany and spreading throughout the West, undermined the Biblical foundation of Western Christianity. Garland Tucker, National Review, 21 Oct. 2017 Word History
First Known Use
1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1