This textbook series is ambitious in scope. It provides concise and lucid introductions to major works of world literature from classical antiquity to the twentieth century. It is not confined to any single literary tradition or genre, and will cumulatively form a substantial literary masterpieces.

Acknowledgements; A Joseph Conrad chronology; A Nostromo chronology; Abbreviations; Map of Sulaco; 1. Origins and originals; 2. The novel's narrative technique; 3. Notes on the characters; 4. History and politics in Nostromo; 5. Conrad's traditions, reception, and influence.