The Reader's Encyclopedia

by benet-william-rose

s/t: An Encyclopedia of World Literature and the Arts
Reference book on the symbols, movements, genres, characters & individuals found in Arts & Literature--as well as disciplines which are effected, or are alluded to, in these fields.

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction, Books About Books, Literary Fiction

1128 pages, Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1965

Reviews

[else fine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly handy reference work, containing biographical information for major writers, definitions of literary terms, entries for characters, literary movements and genres, historical figures who are featured in major works of literature, mythology, and more. Every edition contains slightly different information, as new writers and styles are added and older, now unfashionable ones are dropped, so it's optimal to get a copy of each. I only have the third edition now, after downsizing my library. I have found it incredibly useful over the years.

[Seizure Romero · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my 500th listing on Goodreads and I think it appropriate that it is the Best Reference Book Ever. The 1965 edition (2nd) is the one I use most-- the 1948 (1st) is in a box somewhere and I have yet to add any of the later editions to my collection. I have many more things to say about this book but it's Trivia Night & there's a pint with my name on it...

[Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before there was a Wikipedia, I used this all the time. I still have my copy right by my desk. When there was a reference you didn't recognize, you'd find it here.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful reference book. Certainly one of the best in the field. Needs to be updated though.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Valuable

[Tyler Malone · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a damn cool volume. A treasure, cover to cover. Now, who wants to update this beast? Anyone?