If you give credit to the author in the body of the work, does that violate copyright laws - for example a quotation or excerpt from another book

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As long as you give credit you are OK.

If you're writing an essay, feel free to use quotes with proper credit. If you're writing something for publication, you will need permission from the copyright owner. Unless the quotes you're using are from a work in the public domain, in which case you can quote the work as much as you want. Public domain means the copyright has expired, which is why we have parodies like Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, which adds new sections to the text of P&P. Here is the section on fair use from the U.S. Copyright Office which gives some added info on the topic: http://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-fairuse.html Be aware that fair use does not mean you have free reign to use quotes and excerpts as long as they are short enough. Fair use is limited by the purpose of the work you're creating. "Could I be sued for using somebody else's work? How about quotes or samples? If you use a copyrighted work without authorization, the owner may be entitled to bring an infringement action against you. There are circumstances under the fair use doctrine where a quote or a sample may be used without permission. However, in cases of doubt, the Copyright Office recommends that permission be obtained." Again, in an essay for school, no worries. Something you plan to sell, get permission first.