The classic work on the subject, "A Literary History Of Persia" is still the standard work in the English language on Persia and her literature. It spans four volumes (2,256 pages) and took about twenty-five years to write. Although it concentrates on Persian literature, it also surveys all aspects of Persian culture from Iranian pre-history to the twentieth century.

The remarkable freshness and liveliness of Browne's prose will astonish readers. In addition to being a work of reference it is a book which may be read strictly for pleasure.