This reader is designed to accompany volume one of The Western Humanities, Sixth Edition. The anthology offers students selections from the West’s literary and philosophical heritage, to help them establish vital intellectual links to the achievements of the continually evolving Western tradition. Each reading is preceded by an introduction, which provides 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.