Great books are rich in perspectives and complex in meaning; they require a meeting of minds to be understood fully. In discussion, several readers pursuing different threads of a work can help each other discover the intricate texture of the whole. Together, they can construct their own more complete visions of what the author is saying. As participants explore the point of view and ideas expressed in a selection, they begin to integrate an author's thoughts with their own. They may find themselves thinking critically and seriously for the first time about God and Man, Life and Death, Love, Hate, War, Courage, Wealth, or Wisdom.
Founded in 1947, the Great Books Foundation is dedicated to providing people of all ages with the opportunity to read, discuss, and learn from the great works of literature.
There are no educational requirements except the desire to learn. There are no teachers and no tuition. Discussion is guided by one or two leaders - laymen, not experts - who encourage the group to think about problems of meaning in the great books by asking questions.
The selections in the Adult Great Books program have been carefully chosen on the basis of interest and discussion value. We believe they present, in excellent translations, some of the most important and profound thinking of the past 2500 years.
The paperback reading series, published exclusively by the Great Books Foundation, provides an economical and convenient way to own the great books. During discussion, use of books with the same page numbers and translations speeds references and eliminates irrelevant textual disputes.
The First Series in the Adult Great Books includes two volumes and a separate Reader Aid booklet. The Second through Fifth Series each include three volumes and a separate Reader Aid.