1865 to Present

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.

With an array of brilliant American writers from Walt Whitman to Edgar Allen Poe, this edition includes writers of different genres, styles, genders, and backgrounds. Yet they all share a quality which seems to define America. These essential writers and their works of literature have been thoughtfully chosen with poignant biographical information. I would recommend this to anyone curious in regards to the profound wisdom and wit American writers have conveyed.

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.

Yes, I know the price is outrageous. My 70's copy of this book, now worn and filled with notes, sports a price of only $15, but this book has to be the greatest bargin in the English language. Everyone should own a copy. Where else could you find Tennyson, Yeats, A.E.Houseman, Thomas Hardy and dozens of others all in one place with superb introductions for each? A few weeks ago a friend mentioned that given the number of poets I can quote I must have a huge library. My reply "No, just the Norton Anthology of English Literature." If you love English poetry you will love this book. If you don't love English poetry this is the best place I can think of to learn to love it.