MLA Reference

When Polonius asks Hamlet what he is reading, the prince, putting on his "antic disposition" (1.5.172), replies, "Words, words, words" (2.2.194).  Hamlet's response is both simple and profound, for all written language is composed, on the most basic level, of words.  While words themselves are collective property (although some individuals, especially Shakespeare, are credited with inventing certain words), once words are put in a certain order they form an idea which is the sole property of its author.  Therefore, when quoting the ideas of another, either directly or indirectly, one must cite the source.  The Modern Language Association (MLA) is the authority for citing sources when studying literature (and most other subjects in the Humanities).  I know you have had some practice with MLA, but it can be difficult to remember all the rules.  In case you need a refresher, then, here is a link to a reference that outlines the procedure for citations as per MLA (7th Edition):

http://www.poetryoutloud.org/poems-and-performance/find-poems

The major changes in the 7th Edition from those previous are that titles of major works (books, movies, plays, etc.) are to be italicized rather than underlined and the medium (print, electronic, etc.) should be cited as well. 

I hope this helps.  See you in class.

Cheers,
Mr. Pace