Choosing the correct formatting for titles in Turabian style can be confusing. Knowing whether to italicize or use quotation marks depends entirely on the type of work you're citing. This guide will clarify the rules and provide examples to help you master Turabian title formatting.
What is Turabian Style?
Before we delve into the specifics of title formatting, let's briefly define Turabian style. Turabian, officially known as A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations, offers a comprehensive guide for formatting academic papers. It's widely used in the humanities and social sciences, emphasizing clarity and consistency. The style closely resembles Chicago style, differing mainly in its focus on student papers and dissertations.
Titles of Books, Periodicals, and Other Independent Works: Italics
In Turabian, titles of larger, independent works are italicized. This includes:
- Books: The Great Gatsby, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Lord of the Rings
- Journals: The American Historical Review, Nature, Science
- Newspapers: The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Guardian
- Standalone Films: Citizen Kane, Casablanca, The Godfather
Example: In my research paper, I extensively cited The Cambridge History of American Literature.
Titles of Smaller Works Within Larger Works: Quotation Marks
Titles of smaller works contained within larger works are enclosed in quotation marks. This category encompasses:
- Articles in Journals or Magazines: "The Impact of Social Media on Political Discourse"
- Chapters in Books: "The Rise of the Novel"
- Essays in Collections: "The Meaning of Life"
- Short Stories: "The Lottery"
- Poems: "The Raven"
- Songs: "Bohemian Rhapsody"
- Episodes of Television Series: "The One Where They're Up All Night"
Example: My analysis focused on the article "The Effects of Climate Change on Coastal Communities," published in Environmental Science & Technology.
When Do I Use Italics and Quotation Marks Together?
Sometimes, you'll need to use both italics and quotation marks in a single citation. This occurs when you're referencing a smaller work contained within a larger work that itself is part of a larger collection.
Example: I consulted the essay "The Social Contract in Rousseau's Emile," found in The Enlightenment and Its Critics. Notice how "Emile" is italicized because it's a book, while "The Social Contract in Rousseau's Emile" is in quotation marks because it's an essay within that book.
What about Subtitles?
Subtitles are treated as part of the main title. If the main title is italicized, the subtitle is also italicized. If the main title is in quotation marks, the subtitle follows the same formatting.
Example: The Art of War: A Modern Interpretation (italicized)
Example: "The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People" (quotation marks)
Handling Titles in Different Languages
The rules for italics and quotation marks generally remain the same regardless of the language of the title. Italicize titles of larger works and use quotation marks for smaller works. However, always consult your specific style guide for any exceptions or nuances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the title is already italicized or in quotation marks in the original source?
You should maintain the original formatting of the title as it appears in the source material. The Turabian style guidelines are for consistency and clarity, not for altering the original text unless absolutely necessary.
Are there any exceptions to these rules?
While the rules are generally straightforward, exceptions can exist depending on the specific context. Always consult the most recent edition of A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations for the most up-to-date guidance.
What if I'm unsure about the type of work?
When in doubt, err on the side of caution. If you're unsure whether to use italics or quotation marks, consulting a style guide or seeking advice from your instructor or librarian is always recommended.
By understanding these guidelines and applying them consistently, you can confidently format titles in your Turabian-style papers, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and adherence to academic standards.
