• Provides a concise, lucid, yet broad overview of classical literature
• Includes a range of examples of original Greek and Latin literature to explore its enduring influence and power to fascinate
• Ideal for students of classics, literature, and history, as well as for the intelligent general reader looking to learn more about the subject

   
From popular histories through to reworkings of classical subject matter by contemporary poets, dramatists, and novelists, the classical world and the masterpieces of its literature continue to fascinate readers and audiences in a huge variety of media. In this Very Short Introduction, William Allan explores what the 'classics' are and why they continue to shape our Western concepts of literature. Presenting a range of material from both Greek and Latin literature, he illustrates the variety and sophistication of these works, and considers examples from all the major genres. 
  
Ideal for the general reader interested in works of classic literature, as well as students at A-Level and University, this is a lively and lucid guide to the major authors and literary forms of the ancient period.