How to Cite a Classic Work in MLA 9th edition

Classical works, ancient texts, and historical writings.

Example in MLA 9th edition

Aristotle. Nicomachean Ethics. Edited by Roger Crisp, Rev. ed., Cambridge University Press, 2014.
In-text (Aristotle)

What MLA 9th edition includes

These are the details of the example above that the style prints, so they are the ones to collect for your own source.

  • Work Title
  • Author
  • Editor(s)
  • Publisher
  • Original Date
  • Edition

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

The formatting comes from the style's own file, so check the finer points against your guide. What to check by hand in MLA 9th edition.

A Classic Work in other styles

APA 7th edition Chicago 18th edition (notes and bibliography) Harvard (Cite Them Right 12th edition) IEEE Vancouver

Other sources in MLA 9th edition

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 Preprint Document Post Blog Post Personal Communication Generative AI