The purpose of the volume—as with the other volumes published in the Anthem Press "Companion to Sociology" series—is to provide a comprehensive overview of Erving Goffman's continued appeal and relevance within the field of sociology and related social science disciplines. The book engages with some of the major themes and continuing concerns of Goffman's sociology. The chapters included in the volume deal with some important aspects of Goffman's life and work that made him into the enigma that he was.

The purpose of the volume – as with the other volumes published in the Anthem Press 'Companion to Sociology' series – is to provide a comprehensive overview of Erving Goffman's continued importance within the field of sociology and related social science disciplines. The book will engage with some of the major themes and continuing concerns of Goffman's sociology. Chapters have been selected based on their scope and their thematic content covering significant aspects of Goffman's life and work, and authors have been selected based on their longstanding interest in and extensive knowledge of Goffman's work.