Winternitz's major work was Geschichte der Indischen Literature (History of Indian Literature). The first volume was published in two parts parts in 1905 and 1908. It dealt with vedic literature, the epics and the Puranas. The second volume on Buddhist and Jain literature appeared in two parts, in 1913 and 1920. In the last volume, Kavya literature and scientific literature found a representation. A bird's eye view of the varnacular literature of modern India completed the volume published in 1922. The value of the work was enhanced bu copious notes. The English translation was revised by Winternitz himself. The first volume was published in Calcutta in 1927, the second in 1933. The treatment of Buddhist Sanskrit literature in English translation represented a new edition. Winternitz died before the third volume could be revised.