Using contemporary themes, culturally and historically diverse selections, and thought-provoking questions that illuminate key literary concepts, this brief, thematic anthology invites readers to explore vital human issues raised by various genres of the written word. Acclaimed author Wendy Steiner masterfully addresses a variety of approaches to exploring literature, including close readings of literary texts, a social issues-based approach (e.g. gender identity and war), and an introduction to literature as a discipline (genre, canon, metaphor, etc.). Literature as Meaning also features Material on today's most provocative debates stimulating student discussion on topics such as masculinity, ecology and waste, spirituality, liberty and equality.