"[A]n indispensable reference book for everyone with an interest in the literature and literary culture of the German-speaking world." [Publisher] Author biographies, plot summaries of major literary works, and *cross references. Not a good source of bibliography

Two-volumes. Author biographies; lists of authors' works; scholarly essays on major works, literary periods and topics; select bibliographies. (Also in German Dept. seminar room)

"Presents, in an immensely readable yet profoundly scholarly account, the history of German literature from the Reformation and Renaissance to the late twentieth century, in the wider context of Germanic culture, over the whole German-speaking area of Europe." [Publisher] Index, author biographies, but no bibliographical references.

15 volumes. The most recent and comprehensive work of its kind, the Literaturlexikon has author entries, arranged in alphabetical order, containing biography, a brief discussion of major works, and bibliography. Each volume has several pictorial essays, and vols. 13-15 are devoted to literary terms and a complete index.

Summaries of major works from the earliest periods to the 20th century are arranged in alphabetical order by author within ten selected literary periods. Biographical and bibliographical references.

Essays—some rather lengthy—on 20th century authors. Includes lists of works but very little secondary literature. Volume 4 is an index of works mentioned and also includes lists of authors who were banned, tolerated, or promoted during the Nazi years.