What was 'Literature' and what is 'the literary'? This introductory volume provides an accessible overview of the history of 'Literature' as a cultural concept, and reflects on the contemporary nature, place and function of what 'the literary' might mean for us today. This volume offers a concise history of the canonic concept of 'literature' from its earliest origins, illustrates the kinds of theoretical issues which are currently invoked by the term 'literary', and promotes the potential 'uses of the literary' within a millennial culture. With Literature Peter Widdowson provides a thought-provoking essay on the contemporary relevance of 'the literary' for students.