In literary studies "primary source" refers to an original literary or artistic work (for example, a novel, poem, film, or diary). These resources include digital versions of many literary works.
Primary sources are original documents or artifacts that originate from the time or event being researched. They include first-hand observations, contemporary accounts of events, viewpoints of the time. In the sciences primary sources also include reports and articles on the results of original research. This page focuses on primary sources for literature, film studies, and history.
Examples of Primary Sources
Other types of information may also be primary sources if they are analyzed for their historical or cultural significance.
See the Newspapers guide for current and historical newspapers. Newspapers are excellent for reports on historical events and for book and film reviews.
Extensive primary source collections concerning the 19th century.