What type of literary work often consists of poetry, fiction, and essays compiled into one volume?

An anthology is a collection of literary works that typically combines various forms such as poetry, fiction, and essays, all curated together in one volume. This format allows readers to explore a diverse range of voices and styles within a single book, making it a valuable resource for both enjoyment and study. For instance, an anthology of modern poetry might include excerpts from several different poets, showcasing their unique perspectives while connecting them through a theme.

In contrast, anecdotes are brief, entertaining stories that usually focus on a single incident or moment and are not a compilation of various literary forms. Aphorisms are concise statements that express a general truth or principle, but they do not represent a collection of works. Antithesis refers to a rhetorical device that presents contrasting ideas, which also does not fit the definition of a literary compilation. This distinction emphasizes the anthology's role as a curated volume that brings together diverse expressions of literary creativity.