The LCAO -MO -SCF -CI method was applied to benzo(1,2-b : 4,3-b′) -difuran and -dithiophene, benzo (2,1-b : 3,4-b′) -difuran and -dithiophene, benzo (1,2-b : 3,4-b′) -difuran and -dithiophene, thieno (2,3-e) benzofuran, thieno (3,2-e) benzofuran, thieno (3,2-g) benzofuran, thieno (2,3-g) benzofuran, benzofuran, benzothiophene and phenanthrene. The calculated π-electron transitions and their oscillator strengths are in good agreement with known absorption spectra. The resemblance of these spectra to the absorption spectra of phenanthrene and phenanthrolines is discussed.