Multivolume with Volume Subtitle

• Hannah Berry (Ph.D.)
• Published on 07/10/2025

It is of significant importance in academic research to cite the sources properly so that credibility is maintained. When citing a specific volume of a multivolume book, mostly when the volume has a subtitle, it is essential to maintain proper conventions in the citation. The Harvard method of citation has certain principles to quote this content. 

This article guides you, step by step, on how to cite a single volume of a multivolume book that has a volume subtitle in Harvard style. It has citation structures, main rules on formatting, practical examples, and further tips to guarantee correct referencing.

Knowing the Citation Context

In academic publishing, multivolume sets are usually split into thematic sets. The volumes may include different editors and subtitles that distinguish them from the title or set as a whole. Referring to a single volume, the following should be followed:

1. The authors or editors of the specific volume (not the series as a whole)
2. The title of the series as a whole
3. The specific volume number and volume subtitle
4. Normal publication information like location and publisher
5. The Harvard style requires a specific format to cover all these areas

Citation Example

In-Text Citation 

For in-text citations in Harvard style, use the editors’ surnames and year of publication:

If the work has one editor, cite using their surname only:

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Omitting the Volume Number: Always include the volume number when citing one part of a multivolume series. It distinguishes the specific book from the rest of the set.
• Omitting the Subtitle: The subtitle is valuable context and must be italicized along with the volume number.
• Using the Series Editor Instead of Volume Editors: Use the editors or authors who edited the specific volume, not the ones who managed the entire series.
• Omitting Publisher Location: Mention the location of publication prior to the name of the publisher.

Match the Title of the Volume Exactly: Use the exact wording and punctuation as placed on the title page of the volume being referenced. Never abbreviate the subtitle. Distinguish Editors from Authors: If editors and not authors, label them as (ed.) for a single one or (eds.) for more than two.  Italicize Correctly: Italicize the series title, volume number, and subtitle in one solid italic string. Do not italicize the editor names, place of publication, or publisher. Order Correctly: The order of components in Harvard style is strict. Avoid reversing the position of the volume number, subtitle, or publishing information. Utilize Authoritative Sources: Check for accurate editor names, title, and publishing information on the title page and copyright page of the volume in case of uncertainty.