Literature and Ourselves: A Thematic Introduction for Readers and Writers

This thematically organized anthology treats literature as a continually expanding commentary on our infinitely varied lives, helping to make the connection between literature and our own unique life stories. Each of the anthology's themes€”Family, Men and Women, Vulnerability, Freedom and Responsibility, Creativity, and Quest€”progresses outward from reflections on the self to more universal issues. Within each theme, the readings provide a unique combination of traditional and contemporary works that highlight the diverse cultures and perspectives of our world today. A new emphasis on argument throughout the book is evidenced by an all new introductory section on literary argument, including an annotated student essay, and argument-oriented questions and suggestions for writing after the reading. New selections&nda