Designed to accompany volume one of The Western Humanities, Seventh Edition, by Matthews et al., this anthology offers students selections from the West's literary and philosophical heritage, helping them establish vital intellectual links to the achievements of the continually evolving Western tradition. Each reading is preceded by an introduction providing information about the author and historical context for the document. In addition, "Reading the Selections" sections provide more specific information to prepare students for reading the documents to follow. Selections are footnoted.