These MLA anthology examples show how using the nine core elements within the container system helps you write accurate citations. Using works from anthologies gives you a way to find related research sources. An anthology is a collection of related works. Often poetry and short stories are collected into a single book. For anthologies, follow the basic format for citing books in MLA 8.
MLA Anthology Citation Examples
To cite one essay out of a collection of works, use this format.
Works Cited Format
Last name, First name. “Title of Essay.” Title of Collection, edited by Editor’s Name(s), Publisher, Year, Page range of entry.
In-Text Citation Format
If you’re paraphrasing or summarizing a work, place the last name of the author or editor in parentheses. For a direct quotation, include the page number.
(Last Name)
(Last Name Page #)
Example – Works Cited
Hughes, Langston. “Aunt Sue’s Stories.” The Collected Poems of Langston Hughes, edited by Arnold Rampersad, Knopf, 2004, p. 23.
Example – In-Text Citation
(Hughes)
(Hughes 23)
Format for Citing an Anthology
To cite the whole anthology, follow the MLA book citation format. Here, use the editor’s name in place of the author.
Format for Works Cited
Last, First Name, ed. Title of Anthology. Edition number, Publisher, Year.
Example Works Cited
Lawn, Beverly, ed. 40 Short Stories: A Portable Anthology. 5th ed., Bedford St. Martins, 2016.
Example In-Text Citation
(Lawn)
(Lawn 78)
Online MLA Anthology Examples
Often, you’ll find good books, including anthologies, available online. Cite these sources using MLA’s nine core elements and include the URL or DOI at the end of the citation.
Works Cited Format
Last, First Name, ed. Title of Anthology. Publisher, Year, URL.
In-Text Citation Format
(Last Name)
(Last Name Page#)
Example – Works Cited
Begbie, Harold, ed. The Bed Book of Happiness. Gutenberg, 2004, www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/13457.
Example – In-Text Citation
(Begbie)
(Begbie 48)
- If your source has a DOI, use that instead of the URL.
- Follow the MLA book format for citing anthologies.
Using Different Sources for Research
As you research and write your MLA school paper, look for a variety of sources. It’s tempting to do a quick web search for reliable sources. However, be sure to visit your library, too. There, you’ll find books, magazines, journals and even DVDs. A variety of sources adds context and intrigue to your paper. You can ask the reference librarian for help during your visit.