It looks like you're using Internet Explorer 11 or older. This website works best with modern browsers such as the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. If you continue with this browser, you may see unexpected results.
Encyclopedias, dictionaries and handbooks are excellent sources for background material on historical and political events, literary authors and works, film, society and culture.
Use them to
check out something your lecturer said
refine an essay topic
compile a list of search terms for further research