Classical Studies: Citing Ancient Sources

Systems for citing ancient texts vary from one author to another; most systems involve book and chapter number and/or line number (NOT page number). If in doubt, please consult your instructor. See also:

Generally, when citing ancient texts, you will use the following format:

[Author], [Title] [Book/Section. (Poem, if applicable).] [Line numbers cited.]

Verse Example

Homer, Iliad 18.141-143.

Prose Example

Plato, Symposium 215a3-218b7.

For help citing secondary sources, take a look at the library's citation guide. This guide gives examples for how to cite in various formats, as well as tips for distinguishing between source types.