This accessible one--volume survey of the literature of Greece and Rome covers the period between Homer around 700 BC and Augustine around AD 410. * Highlights what is important historically and of continuing interest and value in classical literature. * An introduction by the editor presents essential information in a concise, accessible way. * Each chapter focuses on a particular genre or area of literature. * This structure allows readers to see continuities between different periods and to move easily between the Greek and Roman worlds. * Includes extensive quotations in English. * A timeline and an index of authors help to make the material as accessible as possible.