Abstract: The subject of the research is the modes of teaching business English through literature pieces specifically related to a typical business environment, word stock and terminology. The purpose of this article is to describe the role of literary arts aimed at improving students’ language competences by providing them with the opportunity to acquire language and business skills through exploring fictional situations and future profession-related topics. The research methods include analysis and generalization of learner-centered teaching approaches, observation, questionnaire survey and empirical studies based on the complex interconnection of culture and literature. This article presents results of the research that involved 120 learners of the 3rd year of Plekhanov Russian University of Economics. The research involved a survey based on the authors' tailored literary extracts focusing on economic insights and linguistic features which proof the utmost importance and novelty of the theme under study. The results of the research demonstrate positive effect of reading and analyzing literature items which enhance language skills, develop critical and analytical thinking abilities to perceive economic thoughts of diverse generations and cultures. The authors conclude that learners, who have achieved a particular level in their professional sphere and master business English, find it encouraging not only to get acquainted with the literary heritage, but also share increased level of commitment in studying humanities.