A reader compiled and published in 1940 by an outstanding scientist and teacher prof. B.I. Purishev (1903-1989), remains the best educational publication of this kind. The book, using numerous, carefully selected literary examples, reveals the history of the formation of baroque and classicism literature in Spain, France, England, Germany, Italy. A new edition of the anthology prepared by prof. V.A. Lukov, corresponds to the State educational standard and curriculum on the history of foreign literature of the XVII century. for pedagogical universities.