During the Enlightenment, humanity became the focus of scientific interest. But how does this new understanding of humanity manifest in literature? And how can its perspectives be utilized for understanding literary texts? The second, revised edition of this study book offers a comprehensive overview of literary anthropology, also referencing the reader "Foundational Texts." Press reviews of the first edition: "Few have engaged as consistently in the anthropological debate of the 18th century within German studies as Alexander Kosenina, who now presents an introduction primarily aimed at students regarding this complex. In short chapters, Kosenina introduces the relevant theoretical texts as well as their impact on various literary genres and their reflection in discursive fields.".