A literary anthology is a collection of written works, often featuring various authors, that showcases a specific theme, genre, or time period. These compilations can include poetry, short stories, essays, and excerpts from longer works. Anthologies serve to highlight diverse voices and perspectives, making literature more accessible to readers. Typically, literary anthologies are curated by editors who select pieces that complement each other. They may focus on topics like American literature, women writers, or contemporary poetry. Anthologies are valuable resources for students, educators, and anyone interested in exploring a range of literary styles and ideas.