This introductory text presents an overview of the liberal arts—literature, art, music, philosophy, and history—with a particular emphasis on literature. The unique selection of works from each culture provides students with a global understanding of the humanities. Several pedagogical features of the Seventh Edition, such as chapter objectives, key terms, art images, and summary questions, help students understand the major concepts of the text. Each volume begins with a "Chronicle of Events" that provides a timetable of key events in world history. "Continuities" sections focus on the lasting contributions of each society.