The Norton Anthology of Western Literature, Volume 1

by Sarah N. Lawall, Heather James (Editor), Lee Patterson (Editor)

Read by millions of students over seven editions, The Norton Anthology of Western Literature remains the most trusted undergraduate survey of Western literature available and one of the most successful college texts ever published. Firmly grounded by the hallmark strengths of all Norton anthologies—thorough and helpful introductory matter, judicious annotation, complete texts wherever possible—the Eighth Edition features a significantly expanded selection of literature (37 new authors and over 150 new pieces) as well as three new pedagogical features designed to enrich students' understanding of the historical and cultural context of the literary works.

Genres: Anthologies, Classics, Fiction, Literature, Reference

2660 pages, Paperback

First published August 15, 2005

Reviews

[Rachel Earling-Hopson (Misse Mouse) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all these books in the collection of English works. I read parts of them, and then read more later. I would love every collection, like World Literature and poetry, maybe. American Literature set is also good. An amazing amount of information and culture. I discover new history and great stories I wouldn't have found, otherwise.

[B. P. Rinehart · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can't exactly put my finger on why I like this book more than volume 2 of this same series but I think it is two factors. One it had , in my opinion, a better more diverse selection of world literature than volume 2 and I made the correct decision to skip most of the editors commentary which infuriated me in the second volume. I plan on reading more stories and poems from this book (especially what comes to mind are the two stories The Song of Roland and The Decameron) so I can really look forward to looking at more stories in this book.

[Heather Forensky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found this treasure in an estate sale and it's a good book for any literature classics. I am happy to enjoy s merging so fantastic. If love to teach any of these in a small tutoring session of I could.

[Shelbi]

A textbook for school that I am enjoying immensely.

[Rsleatherwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book for a college course on ancient western literature. It gave a great overview on several of the classics - i.e. The Iliad, Canterbury Tales, Dante's Inferno, Paradise Lost.

[May C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

For "World Literature" class. I loved this book. Read "The Iliad", "The Odyssey", "Aeschylus" pieces

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the book I read the Odyssey from. It also has other good stories like that of Antigone, who though too judgemental of her sister Ismene, otherwise rocked. I certianly wish I could talk like that.

P.S. Poor Tiresias. No one ever believes him.

[Nolan Flavin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great collection, but contains too many fragments of stories. If I purchase an anthology, I want the whole work, for the entire purpose is to spare myself of purchasing each individual work. However, the Norton Anthology provides enough for a general understanding.

[Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was used for a college course and I have always loved the Norton Anthology series. Great way to read all of your favorites in one huge book. Yes, I am a nerd. lol