The last person to have read most of the published output probably lived in the 1500s! No person can now read more than a microscopic fraction of the published word (in any of its many formats). Guides, literary criticism and anthologies can offer a tool for the bewildered. Literary criticism, particularly, not merely enthuses about authors and writing but attempts to set standards of judgement and taste.
This anthology of critical writing from Norton (http://www.wwnorton.co.uk/) ranges from Gorgias and Plato to Sigmund Freud and Mikhail Bakhtin. Each of the 147 contributions has a headnote introducing the writer and making connections to other critics, theorists and movements. An introduction surveys the history of theory and criticism. This is a standard work in its field, a reference work, a treasure trove, and as such a wonderful addition to your collections. Own it.
2800 pages in W.W. Norton & Company
2nd revised edition 9 April 2010
ISBN 978-0393932928