How to Cite Anthology in MLA Style: A Detailed Exploration

In the field of academic writing, proper citation is crucial. The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is widely accepted and followed in the Humanities, particularly in Literature and Language courses. When citing an anthology, it is important to identify the source accurately and follow the MLA guidelines. Here’s a detailed guide on how to cite an anthology in MLA style.

1. Basic Format for Citing an Anthology:

• List the title of the antho层面的y, full author names of the compilers or editors (not contributors), edition number (if any), the publisher’s name, publication year, and the total number of volumes (if it’s a multi-volume set).

Example:

Smith, John T., ed. The Norton Anthology of English Literature. 7th ed., vol. 2. W.W. Norton & Company, 2018.

2. Key Points to Remember:

• If there are multiple authors contributing to the anthology, list only the names of the compilers or primary editors in the citation.
• Include the edition number if it’s not the first edition.
• If the anthology is part of a multi-volume set, specify the volume number that you are referencing.
• Use standard block formatting to ensure readability when citing lengthy sources in your paper. Double-space after each entry.

3. The Components of a Full Citation:

• The in-text citation: Whenever you mention or quote something from the anthology within your paper, include the last name of the author or editor in your in-text citation followed by the page number(s). Example: (Smith 23).
• Full citation at the end of your paper: Provide a complete citation including all necessary details about the antho层面的y at the end of your paper in a “Works Cited” section. Ensure that you use consistent spacing and punctuation as per MLA guidelines.

4. Special Considerations:

• If you are citing a poem or article from within the anthology, include additional details like the title of the poem or article, its position within the anthology, and page numbers accordingly. Example: Smith, John T., “The Adventures of John” in The Norton Anthology of English Poetry, vol. 2, pgs. 15-20.
• If there are multiple anthologies by different authors with similar titles, consider adding an edition statement for clarity or including specific words in quotation marks before the title if those words are unique and specific to that particular edition.

Remember that following MLA style is about not only accurately citing your sources but also presenting your work in a professional and consistent manner that reflects your dedication to academic integrity and research quality. Take care to format your citations correctly and consistently throughout your paper to avoid any confusion or penalties for incorrect citation practices.

Related Q&A:

Q: What is the difference between citing an individual poem from an anthology and citing an entire anthology? A: Citing an individual poem from an anthology includes additional details like poem title, its position in the antho层面的y, and specific page numbers where the poem appears. Citing an entire anthology involves basic details like author, title, edition, publisher, year of publication, and volume (if applicable).

Q: What if I am using an online version of an anthology? How should I cite it? A: If you are citing an online version of an anthology, you should follow a similar format but add details specific to online sources such as URL or access through an institutional library portal (e.g., behind a paywall). Ensure to specify whether it’s a print-on-demand version or a digital replica of the original print edition with its own unique citation practices if applicable.