The Norton Anthology of American Literature

Norton is always an excellent choice in anthology for literature!! The indexes and bibliographies are wonderful resources! Many college literature classes use the Norton as their text of choice.

The Norton anthology is the definitive collection of American literature. Its selections range from the letters of Christopher Columbus to quintessential American works like Whitman's "Song of Myself" and inherently American movements such as beat poetry. The collection offers a wide spread selection of works, some of which fall outside of your typical definition of "literature." All, however, have been important parts of our artistic tradition and provide literary examples of the coming of age of America. Literature has truly helped to define the American identity. This book is a history lesson, a journey through some of the most beautiful poetry and prose ever written and a testament to the kind of intelligent, passionate people that have formed our country.

The Norton anthology is the definitive collection of American literature. Its selections range from the letters of Christopher Columbus to quintessential American works like Whitman's "Song of Myself" and inherently American movements such as beat poetry. The collection offers a wide spread selection of works, some of which fall outside of your typical definition of "literature." All, however, have been important parts of our artistic tradition and provide literary examples of the coming of age of America. Literature has truly helped to define the American identity. This book is a history lesson, a journey through some of the most beautiful poetry and prose ever written and a testament to the kind of intellegent, passionate people that have formed our country.

Rarely does one encounter a book that can be read when you are in any mood. Despite the physical weight of the anthology, which makes it awkward to carry around, there is something in it for everyone. The book includes authors ranging from the beginning of American history, such as Columbus, to modern day writers like Pinsky. I found the collection to be complete and varied. The biographical introductions to each author are helpful from an academic standpoint, as well as to shed light on writers I was not familiar with. The most interesting aspect of the anthology is the development of writing styles throughout the centuries. The themes and forms vary to reflect what was important at certain times. This is truly an fabulous book filled with colorful writings that mirror the intellectualism of men and women we oftentimes overlook as being antiquated in style. For there is nothing more timeless than Anne Bradstreet's letter to her children written in the 1600's. She speaks of the ageless trials of parenthood, love, and duty to God. I hope others will enjoy this book and learn something from it, even if it's that you don't like a certain author.