Gunner and Frankel construct the web of ideas that is Western tradition into an intellectually and socially challenging text of readings and commentary. This text is intended to enhance the experience of freshman writing courses. The book brings lasting meaning to the general course with critical essays and provocative issues that engage students' interest. This book addresses the question, "Where do I fit in to Western culture?" The readings are divided into chapters beginning with Ancient Greek Tradition which implies and introduces chapters focused on modern development in religion, science, politics, and philosophy. Introductions defining key concepts and concluding "Chapter Writing Topics" serve as bookends for each chapter's diverse perspectives on the canons. Ideas with relevance that stretch into all corners of the humanities and sciences make this text one that is beneficial well-beyond the first year writing course.