First published 1986
Sam Tanenhaus takes readers on a journey through the greatest works of world literature, moving from ancient epics to contemporary fiction. Rather than following chronological order, he organizes his exploration around central themes that connect writers across centuries and cultures. Homer's epic tales find echoes in modern storytelling. Dante's spiritual quest resonates with later authors grappling with meaning and morality. Shakespeare's psychological insights anticipate the concerns of twentieth-century novelists like Saul Bellow. Tanenhaus shows how these literary giants speak to each other across time, revealing patterns and preoccupations that define human storytelling. He provides curated reading lists to guide readers deeper into this rich tradition. The book serves as both introduction for newcomers and fresh perspective for seasoned readers of the classics.
Genres: literature, literary-criticism, literary-fiction, academic
Vibes: intimate, lyrical, thought-provoking
Tropes: literary-exploration, thematic-connections
208 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Ballantine Books