How to Cite a Classic Work

Classical works, ancient texts, and historical writings.

What You'll Need

Work Title
Author
Original Date
Modern Edition/Translation
Editor(s)/Translator(s)
Publisher
Publisher Location
Edition

Note the original publication date alongside the edition you consulted. Include translator information if using a translated version.

Example Citations

APA
Aristotle. (2000). Nicomachean Ethics. In R. Crisp (Ed.), Cambridge Texts in the History of Philosophy (Rev.). Cambridge University Press.
In-text (Aristotle, 2000)
MLA Handbook (in-text citations)
Aristotle. Nicomachean Ethics. Cambridge Texts in the History of Philosophy, edited by Roger Crisp, Rev., Cambridge University Press, 2000.
In-text (Aristotle)
CMOS 17e with Bluebook (notes and bibliography [14.19])
Aristotle. Nicomachean Ethics. In Cambridge Texts in the History of Philosophy, Rev., edited by Roger Crisp. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2000.
Footnote Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, in Cambridge Texts in the History of Philosophy, Rev., ed. Roger Crisp (Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2000).

Other Source Types

Website Book Journal Article Newspaper Article Book Chapter Thesis/Dissertation Report Video Podcast/Broadcast Magazine Article Software Dataset Patent Legal Case Legislation Bill Regulation Hearing Standard Treaty Conference Paper Manuscript Review Book Review Reference Entry Dictionary Entry Encyclopedia Entry Periodical Collection Interview Speech Song Musical Score Graphic Figure Map Performance Event Pamphlet Article Document Post Blog Post Personal Communication