Encompassing Nature: A Sourcebook

by Robert M. Torrance

Encompassing Nature is the first anthology of nature writing to include representative works from the world's myriad cultures Since ancient times, human cultures have invented literary forms and traditions to express the mysteries and delights of living on earth. Charting the history of these forms, Encompassing Nature reveals that nature writing as a literary genre predates the nineteenth- century influences we associate with Wordsworth and Thoreau. Encompassing Nature begins with the myths and songs of ancient civilizations. It concludes with writers in the Western tradition, such as Gilbert White, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and William Bartram-the historical moment where other anthologies of nature writing only begin. With broad vision and intellectual scope, Robert Torrance assembles a wealth of texts in an encyclopedic anthology that will stand both as an authoritative reference work and as an illuminating book of sheer joy.

Genres: Nature, Essays, Environment

1248 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1997

Reviews

[Ambrose Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a lot of nature writing in this book. A lot of hard work went into putting this sourcebook together. So 5 stars for a good job. Somewhere in the last 500 pages I got tired of nature and started thinking, "might this have better if it were shorter?" Yes, but it is too late. I'm through, no more nature books for me. No, not even short ones.

[Chris Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Currently out of print (as of the time of this posting) you may still be able to track down a used copy on Amazon or at a used book store.

This book is the most comprehensive collection of environmental themed literature I have ever seen. From the Europe of the Enlightenment, to Ancient Mesopotamia, this book has it all. The reason that I decided to become an English major is that my English 1C Instructor at Community College assigned this book as a reader.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cool examination of the various ways humans have perceived and interacted with nature/environment through much of recorded history.

[Karen Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Often turn to this book to reconnect with how nature and science has been viewed through history. Easy to reread some sections. Have enjoyed this book for years.