Originally published in 1956, this anthology contains a total of sixty extracts, beginning with Thomas Malory and ending with Samuel Butler, with its aim being to introduce English prose literature to an audience of new readers and display the riches of English prose in its variety of style and rhythm. Arranged in chronological order, the author's selections have been made with the intention that each extract should be a complete idea, episode or description and that as many genres as possible are included. Notably, in the second half of the book James comments on each extract and sets each literary work in the context of its author's life and times. A glossary of old English words and a list of the most accessible editions of the epoch are also incorporated. This book will be of great value to literature scholars and to anyone interested in historical linguistics.